As the frost sets in and the temperatures drop, many parents face the dilemma of keeping their little ones warm during car rides. However, it’s crucial to remember that bulky winter coats and car seats do not go hand in hand. While it might seem sensible to bundle your child up before strapping them in, doing so can compromise their safety.
According to experts, including insights from Consumer Reports, thick winter jackets can compress during a collision, which poses a significant risk to your child’s safety. This is a message that cannot be overstated: never secure your child in a car seat while they’re wearing a heavy coat.
For many parents, the thought of removing their child’s coat in chilly weather feels counterintuitive. I can relate—it’s a common oversight, especially for those of us experiencing cold weather for the first time. Just recently, I found myself buckling my kids into their car seats, oblivious to the dangers posed by their bulky winter attire. It was only after seeing a post on social media that I realized the potential hazards.
How to Test if a Coat is Too Bulky
To determine if a coat is too bulky for your child’s car seat, Consumer Reports suggests a straightforward test:
- Put the coat on your child and have them sit in the car seat, strapping them in securely.
- Tighten the harness until you can’t pinch any of the webbing with your thumb and forefinger.
- Without loosening the harness, take your child out of the seat and remove the coat.
- Place your child back in the seat and buckle them up using the original harness adjustments.
If you can pinch the webbing now, the coat is too bulky to be worn under the harness.
Alternatives to Keep Your Child Warm
If you discover that a winter coat is not safe to wear while buckled in, here are some alternatives to keep your child warm:
- After buckling your child in, try placing the coat on backward, with their arms through the sleeves, effectively creating a cozy blanket.
- Drape a blanket over your child for added warmth.
This important safety tip may seem obvious to some, but if it helps even one parent realize they’re not securing their child properly, then it’s worth sharing.
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Summary
In summary, it’s essential to avoid strapping your child into a car seat while they are wearing a bulky winter coat. These coats can compress in an accident, compromising safety. Instead, consider alternatives like using a blanket or putting the coat on backward. By following these safety tips, you can ensure your little ones are warm and secure during winter travels.