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Ocean City’s seasons change and so do the challenges for families to keep their little ones safe. Whether you’re moving through icy streets during a winter storm or stuck in summer crowds, one thing is true: car seat safety requires more than just a quick buckle. How you install, adjust, and monitor your child’s car seat can mean the difference between a close call and a disaster. Let’s get into some often overlooked tips to keep your child safe no matter what the weather or traffic brings.
It’s vital to choose the right car seat keeping your child’s age and size in mind. Rear-facing is a must for newborns and infants, as their little necks and spines are so fragile in those early years. As they grow, upgraded to age- and size-appropriate seats will keep them safe. Experts recommend parents keep their kids rear facing until they reach the maximum weight or height of the seat, as it’s the safest option for their neck, head, and spine in a crash.
Many parents often wonder when to switch to front facing car seat. In most cases, it’s okay to turn them in a forward-facing position on shorter journeys, but still, you need to bear in mind that most kids can safely stay rear-facing until at least 2 years old. In fact, modern car seats can support extended rear facing until 4 years old. It all depends on the type of car seat you have for your child.
A properly installed car seat can reduce the risk of fatal injury by up to 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers. To get the most out of this, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider having a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician inspect your installation. Look for car seat check events in Ocean City and take advantage of them to get your car seats checked for free.
However, don’t just wait for these opportunities if you haven’t had your car seat checked in a while. In our beach environment, where sand, salt, and moisture are always present, regular seat check-ups are vital to ensure these elements haven’t weakened the attachment points or compromised the LATCH system.
Whether you’re using LATCH or a seatbelt to install your child’s car seat, make sure it’s tight and sturdy. When you check the installation, the car seat shouldn’t move more than an inch in any direction when you pull on the base. A tight fit means the seat will stay put in a crash and reduce the risk of injury.
This is even more important for Ocean City families who often switch car seats between cars. Whether you’re moving a seat to a grandparent’s car for a trip to the Cape May County Park & Zoo or between cars for different outings, the re-installation process can be a risk if not done correctly each time.
By following these tips and staying up to date on car seat safety, parents can keep their little ones safe whether they’re heading to a winter festival at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier or a spring walk on the boardwalk. Remember, when it comes to child passenger safety, knowledge and proper installation are important to preventing injuries and saving lives.
