Ensuring baby safety in the car is crucial to protect your little one from potential injuries in the event of a crash or sudden stop. Here are some important tips for baby safety in the car:

1. Rear-facing car seat: Infants and toddlers should always ride in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the seat’s manufacturer, which is typically around 2 years old or more. Rear-facing seats provide better protection for a baby’s head, neck, and spine in a crash.
2. Proper installation: Car seats must be installed correctly, following the manufacturer’s instructions. They should be tightly secured with either the vehicle’s seat belt or the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system. It’s recommended to have the installation checked by a certified child passenger safety technician.
3. Positioning: The car seat should be installed at the correct recline angle, and the harness straps should be snug against the baby’s body, with the chest clip at armpit level.
4. Avoiding accidents: Never leave a baby unattended in a car, even for a short time. Ensure that all doors are locked when the car is in motion to prevent accidental opening. Also, be cautious when opening and closing doors near the car to avoid hitting the baby.
5. No front seat: Babies and young children should never ride in the front seat of a vehicle with an active passenger-side airbag, as the force of the airbag can cause severe injuries or death.
6. Rear middle seat: If possible, secure the car seat in the rear middle seat, as it is the safest position in case of a side-impact collision.
7. Avoid loose objects: Ensure that there are no loose objects in the car that could become projectiles in case of a sudden stop or crash.
8. Appropriate clothing: Dress your baby in comfortable clothing that allows for proper harness adjustment without the need for bulky coats or blankets.
9. Regular checks: Check the car seat regularly for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if it has been involved in a moderate or severe crash.

Following these safety guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of injury to your baby while traveling in a car. Remember, keeping your baby properly secured in an appropriate car seat is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure their safety on the road.

Also check out Preventing Baby Falls.