Car Seat Safety Tips from Macaroni Kid

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When driving in a vehicle, the best way to keep your kids safe is to use car seats that are not only the right size for them, but are also properly installed. A car seat is a life-saving device that should never be overlooked in how it is installed and used. Everyone here at Macaroni Kid Henderson-Boulder City and SW Las Vegas take the safety of our own children and the children in the community very seriously. That is why we have put together some car seat safety tips every parent needs to pay close attention to. 

Here are our top car seat safety tips: 

Know the law. According to Nevada State Law, NRS 484B.157, the use of a child restraint is required until a child reaches BOTH six years of age and 60 pounds. 

Buy the correct car seat for your child. Rear-facing car seats are the best for as long as possible or at least until the child is two years of age or older. As your child grows, make sure you are purchasing the proper car seat for the child’s weight and age. 

Install car seat properly. Decide if you are going to use the seat belt or lower anchors to secure the car seat. Both are safe, but are not utilized the same way. Read all instructions on how to install the car seat properly. It is also important to install the car seat in the proper position in the car. The safest spot in the car is in the back seat, away from any air bags. 

Change seats only when necessary. Do not be in a hurry to get your child in a new car seat. Wait until the child is ready to be upgraded. When changing out the car seat, read all instructions and check the label to ensure your child is within the weight, height and age limits for the new seat.

Avoid purchasing a used car seat. It is always best to purchase a brand new car seat. However, if purchasing a used one is necessary, it is important to do some research before purchasing it. Make sure the used car seat comes with all the instructions and label (showing manufacture date and model number). Research to make sure it has not been recalled or expired. Inspect the seat for any damage or missing parts and ensure it has never been in any type of accident. If you cannot track the car seat’s history, do not purchase it. 

Get educated. There is a lot of information available, you just have to go look for it. Take the time to learn as much as you can about car seat safety and how to protect your children. A few resources we find useful include DMV.com and Safe Kids. 

Car seats are a very important safety tool every parent needs to pay close attention to. Not using or installing the car seat properly could put your child in danger. Take time to know how to use and install the seat properly. For further details or assistance on car seat safety, check out the links we shared in the “Get Educated” section of this article. 

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