Checklist For Safe Holiday Travel

Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day events all mean one thing-lots of travel! As you are rushing around to fulfill all your holiday duties, don't neglect the important task of ensuring your child's safety while traveling in an automobile. Here is a quick check-list to serve as a reminder of dangers that occur during travel with children. Print out this list and keep it in a visible place as a constant reminder to adhere to travel safety guidelines. You child-proof your house, why not your car?

• Choose a car seat seat that fits your child. Check the height and weight guidelines on the car seat or booster you are using in the car. Compare the measurements to your child's actual size and make sure it is the correct fit.
• Properly position the car seat in the back seat. Never place a car seat in the front seat or near an air bag. Also, it is best to place the car seat in the middle of the back seat so your traveling companion cannot attempt to unlock the doors or roll down the windows.
• Check and double check that your child is fastened snugly into the car seat. Don't forget to make sure that the actual infant seat is attached to the seat of the car. This is a step that many hurried parents forget to check.
• Activate child-proof locks. Read your car's manual if you are unsure how to activate them. If your car did not come with this safety mechanism, contact the car's manufacturer for other options.
• Lock back seats. If you child has fold down back seats make sure they are secured before travel.
• Prepare activities. Children can quickly become bored while traveling. Prepare some activities so little tykes will not be tempted to explore the car doors and locks.
• Never leave a child unattended.
• Keep dangerous chemicals out of reach. Air fresheners, windshield washer fluid, motor oil and other chemicals are often left stored in the back seat of a car for easy accessibly. If a small traveler is accompanying you, remove all these items before you embark on your journey.
• Remove any choking hazards. Small toys, plastic shopping bags and other objects can quickly become a chocking hazard. Always keep the back seat clear of small items.

After you go over your safety check-list, double and triple check that no small children are around your vehicle when you back up. Accidents typically happen when people are in a hurry!