The GUEST remains SEATED – Until the ceremony is over

Why am I saying that? Every year, thousands of accidents occur in Kenya. More than half of such incidences happened because the passengers were not properly secured in their seats.

While such disasters can be prevented, the use of car-seats to protect children in the event of these misfortunes cannot be over- emphasized. The type of seat that your child needs is dependent on the age and weight of your child. BabyLove has these simple tips to ensure that your ‘Little Guest of Honour’ remains safely seated until the ceremony (ride) is over:

Car-seat types
They are of two types: Rear-facing and Forward-facing. The rear facing seats are made specifically for all babies under one year. When your baby is past this age, they can ride in the forward-facing seat, suitable for babies weighing 13kg and above. The car seats currently available in the market are suitable for babies from one year and below, 1-3 years and 3-9 years.

Tips

• Always check the manufacturer label to establish the seat’s history and find out how long the seat should be used. Then read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Make sure the car safety seat is installed firmly and securely in the vehicle and that the harness fits the child snugly.
• Avoid buying or using seats that have cracks, that do not have a label with the date of manufacture. with no instructions of use, have missing parts or have been involved in a severe to moderate car crush.
• Never place a rear- facing car seat in the front seat of a vehicle with an active air bag. If the bag inflates, it could hit the back of the seat, where your baby’s head is, causing serious injury.
• Be sure you know what kind of seat belts your vehicle has. Some seat belts may not be compatible with the baby’s harness.
• Higher price tags may not necessarily mean that the seat is the safest or easiest to use. The best seat for your child is one that correctly fits according to their size and age.
• Never leave the child alone, in or around a vehicle. His life can be endangered especially by heat stroke due to a rise in temperatures. The car could be set into motion leaving your child helpless in a moving car.
• Ensure that you always buckle up to motivate your child to develop a life long habit of using safety belts.

END: BL 28 / 11