A car seat is one of the most crucial safety tools for protecting your child during travel, but even the best car seat is ineffective if installed incorrectly. To help parents ensure their children’s safety, we spoke with Teow Joon Wei, a MIROS-certified Child Occupancy Safety Advisor (COSA), who shared expert insights on common mistakes and how to avoid them.
MIROS-certified expert Teow Joon Wei shares the most common mistakes parents make and how to fix them.
Common Car Seat Installation Mistakes
Conventional Car Seats: Misusing the Seat Belt
“Many parents make the mistake of routing the seat belt incorrectly or not tightening it securely enough,” explains Teow Joon Wei. Car seats often have specific belt paths for installation, and improper routing can compromise the seat’s stability. A loose car seat can fail to protect a child in the event of a collision, rendering it almost as unsafe as not having a car seat at all.
ISOFIX Car Seats: Incomplete Attachment
For ISOFIX car seats, Teow highlights a different issue: “Parents sometimes don’t fully click the ISOFIX anchor points into place, leaving the seat loosely attached or creating a gap between the car seat and the vehicle seat.” While ISOFIX systems are designed to simplify installation, neglecting to double-check that the seat is securely attached can still pose risks.
How to Ensure Proper Installation
Teow strongly recommends consulting a professional:
“Visit a baby shop with a certified COSA for a thorough installation check. As MIROS-certified advisors, we are trained to assess and correct car seat installations, ensuring peace of mind for parents before they hit the road.”
Understanding Car Seat Stages
Car seats come in three main stages, each suited to different ages and developmental needs. Teow breaks down these stages to help parents understand when and why to transition.
Rear-Facing Seats
Rear-facing seats are essential for newborns and infants. “The European Standard R129 mandates rear-facing seats for children up to 15 months old,” says Teow. This position offers maximum spinal protection in a crash, as it supports the child’s entire body instead of relying on a seat belt.
Forward-Facing Seats
After 15 months, most children are ready to transition to a forward-facing seat. “At this stage, their bones and muscles are stronger, and they typically find forward-facing seats more comfortable as they grow taller,” Teow explains.
Booster Seats
“Booster seats are ideal for children aged 4 and above,” notes Teow. These seats elevate the child, ensuring the seat belt fits correctly across their chest and lap. Booster seats often come with adjustable headrests to accommodate growth, providing protection until the child reaches approximately 12 years of age.
What to Look for in a Car Seat
Safety certifications are critical when choosing a car seat. Teow advises parents to check for an orange European certification sticker, which indicates compliance with rigorous safety standards. “In Malaysia, you might also find a MIROS sticker with a QR code. Scanning this code links to detailed product information, offering an additional layer of assurance,” he adds.
Traveling Safely with Babies and Toddlers
The Importance of Secure Installation
Teow stresses that proper installation is the foundation of car seat safety: “A loosely installed car seat won’t protect your child during an accident. Double-checking the seat’s stability is crucial before every journey.”
Managing Distractions
Parents often face challenges when their child becomes restless or upset during a drive. “Never take your child out of the car seat while driving, even if they are crying,” Teow cautions. Instead, he recommends pulling over to a safe spot to address the issue. If another adult is present, they can sit beside the child to provide comfort or entertainment.
Preparing for Weather Conditions
Maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the car can help keep babies calm. “Dress your child appropriately and ensure the car is neither too hot nor too cold,” suggests Teow.
Emergency Preparedness
Teow advises parents to always prioritize their safety first during an accident: “You can’t help your child if you’re injured. A properly installed car seat is the best protection your child can have in an emergency.”
He also recommends carrying an emergency kit with essential items like first-aid supplies, water, and a phone charger to be prepared for unexpected situations.
Keeping Toddlers Calm on Car Rides
To keep toddlers engaged and calm during long drives, Teow suggests:
- Keeping a few favorite toys or books in the car.
- Having snacks or water on hand.
- Ensuring the car seat is comfortable and well-padded.
- Maintaining a calm and soothing atmosphere.
“Creating a positive experience in the car can make a significant difference,” says Teow.
Final Thoughts
Car seat safety is a critical aspect of parenting, and even small mistakes can have severe consequences. Teow Joon Wei emphasizes that the key to protecting your child lies in understanding the installation process, transitioning between car seat stages at the right time, and being prepared for every journey.
“Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a certified COSA,” Teow advises. “It’s the best way to ensure your car seat is installed correctly and your child is safe.”
With expert insights and actionable tips, parents can feel confident knowing their little ones are secure on every drive.
