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Installing a Car Seat Correctly

Make sure to put your child’s car seat in the back seat, which is the safest place for a child under 13. Airbags are not made for younger children and can be dangerous when deployed. If you must place a child in the front seat, disable the airbag.
Get the right car sear for your child’s age and height. Babies and infants under a year old or twenty pounds must use rear-facing seats. (Rear-facing seats require that the child’s head is resting on the back of the seat, so adjust the angle of the seat accordingly) Children younger than eight-years-old and under 4 feet 9 inches tall must use booster seats.
Most new vehicles have anchors and latches made specifically to secure seats. Check the owner’s manual for details
on your specific model. Also, make sure that you secure the seat belt through the correct tracts.
Double-check the harness straps of the seat. The straps must be even with the shoulders, with the clip over the sternum or middle of the ribs. Straighten out the straps before each use and take out all twists.
Take off any thick or puffy clothing before placing your child in the seat. This clothing does not allow for the snuggest fit and can compromise the safety features of the seat.

Holiday Driving Tips

Perform standard maintenance on your vehicle – If you are going to be traveling a long distance over the holidays, make sure that everything has been serviced and is ready for a long trip. Get an oil change, check your tires, change your headlights, and make sure your brakes are in good shape.
Do not speed – To make up lost time, many motorists will try to speed. It does not make up very much time, costs you more in gas money, and is more dangerous when the roads will be busier with holiday travelers.
Don’t drink and drive – Please prepare in advance to have a designated driver, call a cab, or arrange for other transportation. Many people drink more often than usual over the holidays and do not set plans for getting home. Make sure to make these important plans.
Put together an emergency kit – This is especially important if you are traveling somewhere with colder weather and snow. If you get stuck, it will be handy to have a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, sand, and a shovel in your trunk.
Check traffic reports and road closures – Call ahead or listen to the radio for important traffic information.
Take breaks – Driving a long distance, especially in snow, can be hypnotizing. Make sure to stay alert and pull over to rest if you need to.