Car seat safety

Did you know that Motor vehicle accidents are still the leading cause of death and injury to children? Using a car seat that is appropriate for your child’s current size and age are very important. You also want to make certain the car seat is installed and used correctly. Here are few car seat safety tips:

• Infants and children, until at least the age of two, are safer riding rear-facing. Harness straps should be at or below shoulder level.
• Older children are safer in a 5-point harness. The clip should be at armpit level and harness straps should be at or above shoulder level.
• Always wear your seatbelt and make sure your children are properly buckled in.
• Keep children in a rear-facing seat as long as possible.
• Keep children in a 5-point harness as long as possible.
• Use booster seats for older children.
• Always use the correct car seat that fits your child and your vehicle.
• Always read the car seat manual and your vehicle manual to properly install your seat.

Seven out of ten kids are not riding in properly used and appropriate car seats. The best way to make sure you are using the proper type of car seat and have it installed correctly, is to visit a car seat safety inspection location.

Tulane Lakeside’s Car Seat Fitting Station offers FREE inspections and educates families on the proper use of car seats. Free inspections are available regularly each month, and by appointment at Lakeside Hospital for Women and Children.

Tulane Lakeside Free Car Seat Fitting Station

• 4th Thursday of every month

5pm – 7pm

• By Appointment by calling (504) 780-4641

Visit the Tulane Pediatrics area of the Kids-Zoo-To-Do on April 29 and get more safety tips while your children enjoy interactive activities and win prizes!

For additional information on car seat safety visit: http://www.safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats/Car-Seat-Safety.htm