Motor vehicle injuries are the leading cause of death among children in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Proper use of an appropriate car restraint system could cut the number of serious and fatal injuries to kids by more than half. Sadly, while many families have car safety restraints, most do not use them correctly. Following a few simple rules on the proper use of a booster seat can produce lifesaving results if your child is ever involved in an automobile accident.
Transitioning Into a Booster Seat
Booster seats should be used once your child is 4 years of age and has outgrown his forward facing car seat. Don't transition to a booster seat too early. Check the manufacturer's information regarding weight and height allowances for your child's current carseat system and use it as long as possible. The harnesses in forward facing car seats provide extra security, making them the safest option for younger children. If your child has outgrown her current seat but isn't old enough for a booster seat, look for a combination seat. This type of restraint system is equipped with a harness and converts from a forward facing toddler seat into a booster seat.
Transitioning Out of a Booster Seat
Continue to use the booster seat until your child is taller than 4'9". Children typically reach this height between 8 to 12 years of age. Check the fit of a seat belt before transitioning your child out of the booster seat. The shoulder belt should be positioned across the midsection of her chest. If the belt is at throat level or above, your child isn't tall enough enough to use a seat belt. Your child also needs to able to sit comfortably, with her knees bent and upper body resting against the vehicle seat. Remember that the lap belt should be positioned across the lower pelvis or hip area and not across the abdomen. If the seat belt can't be used properly, your child isn't ready to transition out of the booster seat.
Correct Use
Follow all manufacturer's guidelines when using your child's booster seat. If you can't locate the instructions, call the manufacturer or visit the company website to obtain a new copy. An improperly used booster seat isn't as effective and is potentially dangerous. The lap belt should be positioned snugly across the upper thighs. The shoulder belt should cross at the middle of her chest. Resist the temptation to tuck the shoulder belt behind your child's back or under her arm. Doing this can result in serious injuries and death in the event of an accident.
Booster Seat Placement
Position the booster seat in a back seat of the vehicle. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is a 40 percent reduction in the risk of serious injury when children under 16 years of age are riding in the back seat. Consider the position of airbags within the vehicle as well. If your vehicle has side airbags, consult the vehicle manufacturer information for further information about the safest location for a booster seat within the vehicle.
