Child seats help protect children in case of an auto accident. They are extremely important, helpful and a requirement for children under height, age and weight restrictions. There are things to consider during winter that may not be concerns during warmer months.
Child Seat Basics In Winter
Store child seats in warmer temperatures when possible. When storing a seat outside or in colder temperatures, children’s body temperature will be lower as soon as they sit in the seat. Allow children to stay warm when they get into a child seat. Never install a child seat cover or blanket that goes between the child and the straps. Adding items like this can affect the crash test ratings and may cause issues. If you have concerns about your child staying warm in the vehicle, place a cover or jacket on top of them AFTER buckling them in safely. Ensure that you do not place really bulky blankets on small babies to avoid risk of the child being smothered.
Further, it is important to keep an emergency bag in your car, especially in colder climates. Keeping extra blankets, gloves or hats in your car will come in handy if you drop something or become stranded.
Winter Gear Removal
Winter coats should never be worn while in a child seat. It takes extra time to remove your child’s clothing before buckling them into a child seat but the extra effort may save their life. Winter coats and other heavy gear make it so the child seat does not fit properly. Straps are designed to fit snug on the child’s chest and pelvis area. In the event of an accident, children can slip through the harness if they have bulky items on while in a child seat.
Hats, scarves and large bows should also be removed on smaller children and babies. These are good ways for children to stay warm but can smother babies without you knowing. It is better for the driver to focus on the road without having concerns about their child’s safety in the back seat. Should you choose to place a winter hat on your baby, check on them regularly to avoid potential risk.
It is important to ensure you follow guidelines for child seats and strap children in correctly. Protect your child this winter by following these safety tips.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics, “Winter Car Seat Safety Tips from the AAP“
