Don't make these common mistakes when putting your child in a car seat

Tiffany Smith, RN and OB Nurse Coordinator at WMC

The next time you place your child in a car seat, be aware of the following common mistakes that can be potentially harmful to your child.

Car seats are often too loose, not strapped in tight enough to the actual car seat. The angle of the actual car seat should be flat, not on an incline when placing a child in a car seat. Never use both the seat belt AND lower anchors to fasten a car seat into place, just use one.

Take the child's coat off before you strap them into the car seat, as winter coats can be too bulky to get a proper fit. Drape the coat or a blanket over the child to prevent them from getting cold on the way to the car or take the coat off once they are inside the car.

Switching a child to a forward facing seat too soon is a common mistake. Each car seat has their own guidelines for height and weight restrictions.

Mirrors are popular and used to get a better view of the child from the back seat. The mirror can become a possible projectile while the car is moving. Toys that attach to the car seat and dangle over the baby can unfasten and also become a projectile.

It is recommended to purchase new car seats to ensure the safety of your baby or older child instead of a using a used car seat.

Tiffany Smith, RN and OB Nurse Coordinator at WMC, demonstrates car seat safety with a model infant