As a parent, it is your duty to make sure you keep your children safe. This is not always an easy task because it seems danger lurks everywhere, and sometimes, you may not even realize something is dangerous. For example, you probably ride in a car with your children often, but you may take for granted that you have had many trips without any issues. All it takes is one time, though, for an accident to occur for you to see how dangerous just riding in the car can be.
Luckily, there are ways you can protect your child in a vehicle. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, there is a list of things you need to know and do to keep your children safe when they are in a vehicle, and you should do these things every time your child is in an automobile. Take a close look at these safety tips and be sure to share them with your kids so they understand the importance of staying safe while riding in an automobile.
Keep them in the back seat
One of the leading rules you need to follow is to never let your child ride in the front seat of a vehicle until he or she is at least 12 years old. The front seat and safety mechanisms in the front seat do not have a design that will keep a small child safe. Always make them ride in the back seat for as long as possible.
Use car seats properly
You need to use car seats and booster seats for children as long as possible. You want to make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on using a car seat, including guidelines for weight and height restrictions. Also, make sure that you read the manual so that you can install the seat correctly. Finally, when securing your child into a seat, ensure that you use the harness or belt properly.
