Keeping Kids Safe: The Importance of Proper Car Seat Installation

As parents, ensuring the safety of our children is of the utmost importance. This week, safety officials are reminding us of the critical role that properly installed car seats play in protecting our little ones on the road. With an alarming statistic that 9 out of 10 car seats in Wisconsin are installed incorrectly, it's clear that more education and support are needed to help families keep their children secure.

Safeguarding Our Most Precious Cargo

The Alarming Reality of Improper Car Seat Installation

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, car seats can reduce the risk of fatal injury by an astounding 71% for babies and 54% for toddlers. However, the Center for Childhood Safety in Green Bay reports that a staggering 9 out of 10 car seats in Wisconsin are not installed correctly. This statistic is a sobering reminder that many parents and caregivers may be unknowingly putting their children at risk.Proper car seat installation is crucial, as even the slightest error can compromise the effectiveness of the safety device. If a car seat wiggles more than an inch at the belt path, it's a clear sign that it's not securely fastened. This is why the Center for Childhood Safety encourages parents to call (920) 272-0110 to schedule an appointment for a free car seat inspection and installation assistance.

Avoiding Common Mistakes: Keeping Kids Snug and Secure

One of the most common mistakes parents make is using bulky winter coats while their child is in the car seat. These thick garments can interfere with the harness, preventing it from being tightened properly. The experts recommend that children wear nothing thicker than a lightweight fleece when strapped into their car seats.Another important consideration is the use of additional accessories. It's not safe to use harness covers or infant inserts that didn't come with the car seat. These aftermarket products may seem convenient, but they can compromise the safety features of the seat and put your child at risk.

Staying Informed: Utilizing Manufacturer Resources

To ensure your child's car seat is installed correctly, it's crucial to read the instruction manual thoroughly. This booklet contains all the important, model-specific information you need to know, from proper harness positioning to weight and height limits. Keep the manual in a safe place, as you may need to refer to it again in the future.Additionally, it's important to fill out and send in the registration card that comes with each new car seat. This allows the manufacturer to alert you about any recalls or safety updates, ensuring your child's seat remains in optimal condition.

Protecting Your Child After a Crash

In the unfortunate event of a car accident, it's essential to replace the car seat, even if it doesn't appear to be damaged. The impact of the crash can cause unseen structural damage that compromises the seat's integrity and safety features. Investing in a new car seat is a small price to pay to keep your child protected.

Empowering Parents: Free Assistance and Resources

The Center for Childhood Safety in Green Bay is dedicated to helping parents and caregivers ensure their children's safety on the road. By offering free car seat inspections and installation assistance, they are committed to equipping families with the knowledge and support they need to keep their little ones secure.Whether you're a first-time parent or have experience with car seats, the experts at the Center for Childhood Safety are ready to answer your questions and provide guidance. With their help, you can have the peace of mind that your child's car seat is properly installed and ready to protect them in the event of an accident.