Letter to the Editor: Car Seat Safety

Dear Editor,

I am writing this letter to voice some concerns I have in regards to appropriate car seat and booster seat usages in our area.

I am concerned that some people seem to be uninformed on this topic that can be extremely dangerous for our children. Maryland law states that all children under 8 years of age need to be secured in a federally approved child safety seat according to the safety seat and vehicle manufacturers' instructions, unless the child is 4 feet, 9 inches or taller, or weighs more than 65 pounds.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that all infant and toddlers remain rear facing until the age of 2. There are many car seats on the market today that allow children of all shapes and sizes to remain rear facing for as long as possible.

I would also like to share a link that goes into more detail on where the chest clips should be placed on a five-point harness and how the straps should be places.

There are several car seat inspection stations in our area. They can inspect that installation of your car seats to make sure you have the safest fit for your vehicle and child.

I believe parents, grandparents and caregivers need to be informed on this topic.

Thank you,
Kristina Langis

Which do you see more, children tucked in safely or seated incorrectly?