Coinciding with Valentine's Day, a time to remember those we love, is Child Passenger Safety Week, when we are reminded that the proper use of child safety restraints can save the lives of those most precious to us- our children.

The following statistics, from the National Center for Statistics and Analysis (NCSA), help to put the issue in perspective:

 Approximately 25,000 children are injured in motor vehicle accidents each year

 Of the 250,000 injured, around 2,000 die from their injuries

 Children comprise about 5% of fatalities

 Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of acquired disability in children

 Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death for children aged 2 to 14

 In more than half of the fatalities involving children, failure to use a seatbelt or child safety seat was a factor

 There is only 90% compliance with the law requiring all children under the age of 5 to be placed in an approved safety seat

When these statistics are viewed, it is surprising that a study by the NCSA found that 72% of 3,500 observed child vehicle safety restraints were being used improperly. One would think that everyone would be especially vigilant in ensuring that they were using the correct age- and size-appropriate restraints for their children. Clearly, we are still falling short of the mark. For those of us who could use a primer on child safety in the vehicle, the following may be of help:

 Infants- Infants who are less than a year old and who weigh less than 20 pounds should ride in an approved infant car seat and should face the rear of the vehicle.

Toddlers and Preschoolers- Children who are at least one year of age and at least 20 pounds should ride in an approved convertible seat, and may face forward. However, it is recommended that they ride facing the rear for as long as possible.

 School- aged children- This age group should ride in a booster seat until they reach at least 4’9” in height, between the ages of 8 and 12. The most important factor here is that the adult seat belt should fit them correctly.

Children- Children who are too large for a booster seat should ride in a lap-and-shoulder harness in the back seat until at least 13 years of age.

(From the American Academy of Physicians)

No love is greater than that of a parent for a child. This article serves as a gentle reminder that there is a way to decrease the risk of serious injury or death to our children.

Related Links:

Car Safety Seats: A Guide for Families from the American Academy of Physicians

Safe and Secure: Choosing the Right Car Seat for Your Child