Child Safety in Cars - How Airbags and Car Seats Protect
You may have heard that the airbag, also known as a safety cushion, has saved around 650,000 lives since 1970. However, like any technological innovation, it comes with specific usage rules and features—especially important when traveling with children.
What is an airbag and how does it work?
An airbag is an additional safety device that works together with the seatbelt to significantly reduce the risk of injury in a collision. Keep in mind that:
- An airbag does not replace a seatbelt—it complements its protection;
- An airbag can deploy even in a minor accident;
- There are front and side airbags, which together provide comprehensive protection for passengers.
Why is keeping a safe distance important?
Airbags are one of the most effective safety features, but sitting too close can be dangerous. Airbags deploy at lightning speed—less than a second—with significant force. This rapid deployment saves lives but can cause serious injury if a passenger is too close.
It is recommended to keep a distance of at least 25–30 cm between the steering wheel and the driver’s chest. Front-seat passengers should move their seat as far back as possible to maintain a safe and comfortable distance. This ensures that the airbag can do its main job—protect—without causing harm.
Children and airbags: what you need to know
The golden rule: children under 12 should never sit in the front seat. Airbag deployment poses a serious risk to them.
Studies show that a child is 75% safer in the rear seat than in the front. That’s why the best place for a child is the back seat, using an appropriate car seat.
If the front seat is the only option, follow these rules:
- Do not install rear-facing car seats for children weighing 0–13 kg in the front;
- If a child must sit in the front, the airbag must be deactivated.
How to ensure maximum safety for your child
A safe journey begins with choosing and properly installing the right car seat. It should match your child’s age and height—only then will it provide full protection. All children from 0 to 12 years old should be in a baby car seat to ensure the safest ride.
Remember, simply having a car seat is not enough. Incorrect installation significantly reduces its effectiveness, leaving the child unprotected. Carefully following the instructions or seeking a specialist’s help can prevent mistakes.
Once the seat is correctly installed, all passengers—including adults—must wear seatbelts. The combination of the seatbelt and the car seat creates a protected space, offering the highest level of safety for everyone in the event of a collision.
By following these simple rules, we can greatly enhance the safety of our children on the road.
From selecting the right car seat to securing it properly, Labebe Boutique and Your Car Seat are here to ensure every detail is covered. Our goal is safe and comfortable travel for every child, with no compromises.
