More parents are traveling these
days with ever-younger children in tow. When it comes to traveling safely,
there are two practices that could save a young life.
First, when traveling in a car,
always secure an infant in a car seat in the back seat.
The rear of a car is a far
safer place in the event of an accident. Above all, never use an infant seat in
the front of a car that has a passenger-side air bag.
If the bag deploys, it can
seriously injure an infant by striking the back of the safety seat.
In a case where an older car
only has lap belts in the rear, or shoulder straps that cross over the neck or
face of a toddler, it is still important to use a safety belt.
In fact, any belt is better
than no belt. Use a booster seat for a young child who has outgrown an infant
seat. This will elevate the child so that the shoulder strap crosses the chest,
not the neck.
If the rear seat has no
shoulder straps, buy a booster seat with a harness or a shield. These devices
have saved young lives.
Second: Remember that
preventive and defensive driving is always the best bet — and drivers should
take special precautions when traveling with young passengers.
But sometimes unforeseeable
circumstances occur, or other drivers are not exercising the same care as you
are.
At those times, it is far
better to be prepared by making sure your child is adequately protected.
