The holidays can be both a joyful and stressful time of year. Families are on the go, running errands, toys to pick up at the toy store and taking road trips to visit relatives and friends. That being said, here are a few tips for keeping your kids safe during holiday travel.
1. Everybody needs their own restraint. Make it a rule: everyone buckled, every ride, every time, whether it’s the long trip to visit family or around the block to the mall.
2. If you are flying, take your car seat with you and use it on the plane. It will be a benefit to have it with you at your destination and when you travel to and from the airport. Let car rental companies know in advance if you need to rent a car seat or booster seat.
3. Watch out for small kids and distracted drivers in parking lots that are busier than usual during the holidays.
4. Remind your inexperienced teen driver to be extra alert during the holidays when people are more distracted and the weather can be tricky.
5. Avoid distractions while driving. No text message or playlist is worth the risk of taking your eyes off the road. Set your GPS to voice activated so you can concentrate on driving without having to look at your phone.
6. Plan to use a driver or car service to ensure responsible driving.
7. Keep car exhaust pipes clear of packed snow to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
8. Secure loose objects. Put hot foods, large gifts, baby toys and anything that could fly around in a crash in the trunk.
9. In cold states, prepare for weather emergencies by packing extra blankets, toys for kids, food and diapers. Keep your phone charged and make sure someone at your destination knows the route you are planning to take.
Learn more about holiday safety tips to keep your kids safe.
This post was prepared by Safe Kids Georgia Intern Annie Ndolo.
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