KANSAS CITY AND OVERLAND PARK AUTO REPAIR

Would you believe us if we told you that car crashes are the number one killer of children aged 1-12 in the US? Sometimes accidents are unavoidable, but you can do the best you can to protect your children by driving attentively and properly placing them in their carseat.

Step 1: Find the proper car seat for your child.

• Choose a car seat based on his or her size and age and fits in your vehicle.

• Be familiar with the manufacturer’s height and weight requirements and replace the car seat when necessary.

Types of car seats:

• Rear-facing seat

  • Best for young children

  • Has harness and moves with child to reduce impact

• Forward-facing seat

  • Has harness and tether

  • Limits forward movement in a crash

• Booster seat

  • Best for older children

  • Seat belt fits over child’s body

• Seat belt

  • Lies across upper thighs and is snug across shoulder and chest

  • Should not rest on the stomach, across the neck or under the arm

Step 2: Install the car seat

Ways to install car seats varies depending on the type of seat you use. Check safercar.gov for guidelines and instructions on how to properly install your child’s seat.

Step 3: Check your installation

Have someone else double check to see if you have properly installed the car seat and to ensure that you haven’t missed anything. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides a list of places that will inspect your seat for free.

Step 4: Secure your child

Your child’s car seat may either have a 5 point harness or a 3 point harness. Again, please check safercar.gov for information on how to properly buckle seat belts and harnesses. Correct harness and belt placement is imperative in keeping your child safe.

A properly installed car seat will be your child’s only protection against unexpected impact. You should also always keep your car running in good condition to minimize damage in a crash. Call Sallas Auto Repair for all your car care needs.