Health Tip: Safe Use of a Car Seat

You want to do everything possible to ensure that your infant or toddler is safe, including while traveling in the car.

The SafeKids.org website offers these car-seat safety tips:

• Make sure the seat is properly installed and fits snugly, and that your child is securely strapped in. The straps and seat itself should not be loose.
• Read the seat's label to make sure your child fits according to product's height and weight restrictions.
• Make sure your child is in the appropriate seat facing in the correct direction. A rear-facing seat is best until the child is at least 2 years old.
• Don't buy a used car seat unless you are sure it has never been in a crash. Make sure the product hasn't passed its expiration date.
• Consult a certified passenger safety technician to be sure your seat is appropriate for your child and is installed correctly.