Car Seats

Car seats for infants and small children are pretty essential. Anyone who's been in even a minor accident knows how bodies can fly around the car, or through the windshield, if they're not buckled in with lap And shoulder belts. For young children lap and shoulder belts may not fit perfectly, and for that reason we have car seats. The American Academy of Pediatrics has a guide to selecting and using the best kind for your kids. Some of the details are also listed below.

Who needs to use a car seat?: Car seats or special restraints should be used for anyone under 7 or less than 60 lbs.

How long does a child's seat have to face backwards?: Children should face backwards until they are 20 lbs and at least 1 year old. Facing forwards puts them at risk of having neck injuries if the car is struck.

Can small children sit in the front seat?: Children are safest in the back seat. This is especially true when a car has passenger side air bags. It's not certain exactly when the passenger seat is safe for young children, so better to be cautious and keep them in the back.

What's all the fuss about Air Bags?: Air bags are designed to protect adults riding in the front seats. Children's bodies are positioned differently, and their heads may come into contact with the air bag while it's inflating. The bags inflate quickly and many children have suffered serious injuries as a result.