Precautionary Measures to Take When Driving with Young Kids
Kids. They sure are cute, but they can complicate just about anything! Driving is no different. While it's true precautions are necessary no matter who's in the car, there are specific things drivers need to be aware of when driving with kids. These tips will help keep the youngest passengers safe:
- Winter coats or other bulky clothing should be removed before children are buckled in, especially into their car seats.
- Speaking of car seats, it goes without saying they should be properly installed. Your local police or fire department will double check it for free. Always better safe than sorry!
- Don't let kids wait in a running car. Ever.
- Piggybacking off the previous point: in hot weather, the interior of a car can triple in temperature within minutes. Don't leave any living things inside a hot car. Ever.
- You should never warm up the car while it's still in the garage. You risk toxic fumes and kids sneaking inside.
- Kids aren't exactly quiet. Be careful not to add to the noise with loud music, yelling, or other distractions.
- Set ground rules for the kids so they understand how to be safe passengers. Shoes, bottles, and other items should never be thrown, especially at the driver!
- Model good behavior by always buckling up and never engaging in questionable language, even if road rage gets the best of you!