Car Seat Safety Reminders Issued for Families Across Utah

As we begin another year on our roads and highways across the state of Utah, it's essential that parents and caregivers take a moment to double-check their child car seats. According to recent statistics, far too many young lives are being lost or forever changed due to preventable mistakes related to improper car seat use.

Utah Department of Health officials have issued a renewed call-to-action for families with children under the age of 11 years old and less than 3 feet 5 inches tall (or younger) to ensure that their child is properly restrained in an approved, correctly installed car or booster seat. These simple yet crucial safety measures can literally be the difference between life and death on Utah's busy roads.

'We see it far too often,' said Sarah Brooks, Injury Prevention Specialist at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City. 'At the hospital, unfortunately, we see the devastation when children are injured or killed in accidents related to improper car seat use.' She emphasized that these tragedies could easily have been prevented if only parents had taken a few simple steps.

'It's a preventable mistake,' Brooks stressed. 'We're asking families across Utah to please make sure they understand how to properly install and secure their child car seats correctly every time they get into the vehicle.'

Brooks noted that this message is especially important in Utah due to several factors:

1. The state has larger family sizes compared to other parts of the country.

2. Long distances between home, school, sports activities, or social events often mean children spend extended periods unrestrained without regular checks.

Some key reminders for parents and caregivers include:

- Always read your car seat manual before first use.

- Ensure that all harnesses are snugly buckled across each child's chest at or below the level of their shoulder.

- Never install a rear-facing infant seat in any forward-facing position until your child has reached 4 years old (or taller, as per manufacturer instructions).

- Always check expiration dates on car seats every six months and replace them immediately if you notice signs of wear.

By following these simple safety tips and taking the time each month to conduct regular checks on your vehicle's rearview mirror or ask for assistance from a certified technician at local auto repair shops or children's hospitals, you can help ensure that Utah's youngest passengers arrive home safe every day.

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