Did you know that crashes are the leading cause of death for children aged 3 to 14? The good news is, with the proper safety measures, these numbers can be reduced, and this can be done through the proper use of child safety seats.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated 8,959 lives were saved by child restraints from 1975 to 2008.

Not only should child safety seats be used, but, as mentioned above, they should be used properly. The NHTSA recommends the following guidelines when selecting, installing, and using a child safety seat in the car:

1. Select a car seat based on your child's age, height, and weight.
2. Keep your child in the car seat for as long as possible, as long as your child fits the seat's height and weight requirements.
3. All children under 13 should ride in the backseat.
4. Follow your car seat manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle owner's manual on how to install.
5. Get help. Certified technicians are available to check your car seat installation for free. Find your nearest inspection station.

For more information, including car seat recommendations for specific age groups, go to the NHTSA website on child safety.

Safety Matters Child car safety seats, NHTSA, Child restraints, Seat installation