Car Seat Installation
I almost can’t believe it, but daylights savings time has finally ended. The sun is out, the weather is warmer (for now), and families are going to be spending more time on the road. Vacations, day trips, and afternoons in the park mean more vehicle traffic. This week let’s go over some tips to keep your little ones safe while travelling.
The correct car seat, and proper installation are the two best ways to keep kids safe in a vehicle crash. The Maryland Highway Safety Office reports that car seats, when used correctly, can reduce the risk of infant fatality by 71% and toddler fatality by 54% when involved in a crash. Sounds easy enough until we learn that it is estimated that 59% percent of car seats are installed incorrectly. Now, the question becomes, how do we know which car seat is right for your kids?
The CDC recommends keeping your infant or toddler in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the top height or weight recommended by the manufacturer. Beyond that, it is ok to keep them forward-facing until it is time to graduate to a booster seat. For a full break down of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommendations, visit https://zerodeathsmd.gov/road-safety/child-passenger-safety/
For information on proper installation of your car seat, check out the Kids in Safety Seats website at https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/OEHFP/KISS/Pages/Home.aspx
While there are tons of resources out there, it is ultimately up to you to make good choices and drive safely on every trip.
Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely.
HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org