Car seat safety is one of the most important ways parents can protect their children. At KidsStreet Urgent Care, we’re not only here when your child is sick or injured. We’re also here to help you prevent accidents before they happen. That’s why we’re sharing essential car seat safety tips every parent should know.
We love kids, and moms love us because we provide care you can trust. Whether you’re a first-time parent or already managing a car full of little ones, it’s always worth checking your car seat setup to make sure your child is as safe as possible.
Choose the Right Car Seat for Your Child
Children need different car seats as they grow, and the right choice depends on their age, height, and weight. Here’s a quick overview:
- Rear-facing car seat: This is best for infants and toddlers. Keep your child rear-facing until they reach the height or weight limit set by the manufacturer.
- Forward-facing car seat: Once your child outgrows their rear-facing seat, move them to a forward-facing option with a harness and tether.
- Booster seat: After outgrowing the forward-facing seat, your child should use a booster that helps the seat belt fit properly.
- Seat belt only: Children should only transition to using a seat belt alone when it fits correctly. This is typically around 4 feet and 9 inches tall.
Always wait until your child fully outgrows their current seat before switching. The safest car seat is the one that fits your child properly and is installed the right way.
Common Car Seat Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced parents can make mistakes when installing or using car seats. Here are a few of the most common ones to watch for:
- Harness straps that are too loose
- Chest clips placed too low
- Putting bulky coats or clothing under the straps
- Using expired or secondhand seats that may not meet safety standards
- Incorrect seat angle or installation without following the manual
These mistakes are easy to correct once you know what to look for, and they make a big difference in protecting your child in the event of an accident.
Installing Your Car Seat Safely
Always follow both the car seat’s manual and your vehicle’s owner manual when installing a car seat. These guides explain exactly how the seat should be secured and at what angle.
If you need help, certified child passenger safety technicians can check your installation and offer guidance. Visit Safe Kids Worldwide to find a certified technician near you.
You can also talk to your KidsStreet provider if you have questions about general safety or need help understanding which car seat type is best for your child.
When to Seek Pediatric Care
If your child has been in a car accident or you’re worried they might be injured, it’s always a good idea to get them checked out. KidsStreet Urgent Care provides care for a wide range of non-life-threatening injuries, including those that might happen during travel.
Our providers are experienced in evaluating children and making sure they are safe and well. We are open late every day of the week to offer care when you need it most.
Register online to save your spot in line or walk in at your convenience. Please note that online registration is not an appointment. It adds your child to the queue and provides an estimated arrival time. While it can help reduce wait time, some wait may still occur during busy seasons.
We’re Here to Help Keep Your Kids Safe
KidsStreet Urgent Care is proud to partner with families to promote safer, healthier lives for children. Whether you need expert advice or care for an injury, we’re here to help.