Why Bulky Winter Coats and Car Seats Don't Mix

Bundling up your children like the kid from "Christmas Story" where bulky winter coats don't allow them to put their arms down isn't only uncomfortable - it could be life threatening.

There was a terrible car accident in Maine where a car and pickup truck collided, causing a 6-month-old baby to be thrown from both the car and his car seat out into the snow, according to an article posted on The Stir.

The baby was found 25 feet from the crash site. The Stir reported that the baby survived but suffered a skull fracture.

Many parents may not know that winter coats and car seats simply do not mix. In an accident, that bulk of the winter coat compresses like a pillow and leaves room between your baby's body and the car seat straps. In a worst case scenario, this could cause the baby to slip out from the car seat.

Especially here in Illinois where winter temps can plummet, parents think they are being good by bundling up their kids. Instead, to keep your kids warm in the car without the big coats, use a "car coat," a lighter jacket for under the car seat straps and then lay the heavier coat on top of the child for warmth.

For more advice, contact SafeKids at their website or at 1-866-SEAT-CHECK.