We were so excited to have a special event with the Franklin Police Department! They will be visited our preschool to offer free car seat installations and safety checks. This was fantastic opportunity for our community to ensure that our little ones are as safe as possible when traveling.
During this event, trained officers will help parents and caregivers properly install car seats, ensuring that they are secure and correctly positioned. Correct installation is crucial for the safety of our children, as it can significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Tips for Correct Car Seat Placement
To help you prepare for the event, here are some essential tips for ensuring car seats are installed correctly:
Choose the Right Seat: Make sure you have a car seat appropriate for your child’s age, weight, and height. Infants should be in rear-facing seats, while toddlers can transition to forward-facing seats once they outgrow the rear-facing option.
Check the Manual: Always refer to both the car seat manual and your vehicle’s owner manual for specific installation instructions.
Tighten the Seat: The car seat should not move more than an inch side-to-side or front-to-back when pulled at the belt path. Use the seatbelt or LATCH system as per the car seat's instructions.
Proper Angle: For rear-facing seats, make sure the seat is at the correct angle to prevent your child’s head from flopping forward. Many seats come with built-in level indicators.
Harness Safety: Ensure the harness is snug against your child’s body and that the chest clip is positioned at armpit level.
Positioning in the Car: The back seat is the safest place for all children under 13. If possible, use the middle seat, as it is typically the safest spot in the vehicle.
Regular Checks: Revisit the car seat installation periodically, especially as your child grows. Make sure it is still appropriate for their size and is installed correctly.
We encouraged all families to take advantage of this event. Proper car seat installation is a crucial step in keeping our children safe on the road, and having trained professionals assist you can provide peace of mind.
