HealthPartners - Taking care of you and your newborn

The “best” car safety seat is the one that fits your baby and is installed correctly in your car. It doesn’t matter whether it’s the most expensive seat made—if it’s not installed properly, it may not protect your baby.

WARNING

Look Before You Lock Your car heats up faster and gets hotter than you might think. Remember to “Look Before You Lock,” so you never forget that your baby is with you. Never leave your child alone in the car, not even for one minute. Children’s body temperatures heat up 3 to 5 times faster than adults.

Did you know? Every car seat has an expiration date. As a car seat ages, the materials may become brittle and break. Check for information on your car seat with the model name, model number, date

of manufacture, and expiration date. And make sure you register your car seat with the manufacturer. That way you’ll be notified about any recalls.

TIPS

Installing seat in car • Tightly install car seat in a rear-facing position in the back seat of car • Car seat should not move more than 1 inch side-to-side • Car seat should recline according to manufacturer’s instructions • If allowed in your car, place car seat in the center position of the back seat

WARNING

Create a reminder Put something that you need in the back where the baby is. For example, your cell phone, your left shoe, your purse, or briefcase. Set a reminder alarm on your electronic device to make sure your child is dropped off. Make a plan with your child care provider and have them call you if your baby or child is a few minutes late.

Shopping tip Infants can fall from shopping carts or the cart can tip over from the weight of the baby sitting in the car seat. Use a stroller when you shop.

! Reminder:

Never leave a child alone in a car

Children’s body temperature rises fast

Always look before you lock!

Create a reminder

Don’t put your infant’s car seat on a shopping cart

CALL 911 IF YOU SEE A CHILD ALONE IN A CAR. It is an emergency and your call could save a life.

31 Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care