With temperatures set to soar to 22C, many parents will be getting their children’s light and airy summer clothes ready. However, there are a few items you need to be careful with
With a mini heatwave on the way, many parents will be thinking ahead to how they can keep their little ones safe and comfortable in the sunshine.
And so it’s out with the cosy knits of the winter wardrobe and in with all things light and airy, with temperatures expected to climb to 22C later on this month.
As sensible as your intentions may well be, however, there are some hazards to consider when dressing your kids ahead of a fun day out at the park or the beach, especially if they’re still using a car seat.
Here, Graham Conway, Managing Director of Select Car Leasing, shares a list of clothing items to avoid this springtime if you’re using car seats.
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Swimsuits and puddle suits
Graham advised: “Clothing made from slippery fabrics, such as swimsuits or puddle suits, are potentially unsafe for children in car seats.
“Slippery fabric reduces friction, reducing the effectiveness of the harness or seat belt, and the garments could prove dangerous in the event of a sudden stop or crash.
“After a day at the beach or splashing in puddles, pat your child dry with a soft, absorbent cover-up or towel before changing them into snug-fitting clothes for the journey home.”
Maxi dresses, lengthy skirts, or loose-fitted clothing
According to Graham: “While ideal for warm weather, loose and flowing clothing can pose a serious risk in a car seat. Excess fabric can bunch up under the harness, preventing it from fitting snugly.
“This reduces the harness’s effectiveness and makes it harder to properly secure the buckles and clips. As a safer alternative, opt for shorter, more fitted clothing or playsuits that won’t interfere with the harness.”
Flip-flops and loose sandals
Graham said: “In an emergency, it’s essential for children to wear suitable footwear to ensure they can be evacuated quickly.
“Flimsy shoes, such as flip-flops or loose sandals, can easily fall off or become stuck, making it harder to remove your child from the car seat swiftly.”
Sun hats with chin straps or neck cords
Graham suggested: “It’s recommended that children avoid wearing hats in car seats, particularly those with dangling straps or cords. These can become caught in the car seat’s mechanisms, which can cause them to become entangled in the event of a crash.
“For sun protection in the car, opt for window shades instead, which offer a safer and more effective alternative.”
Jackets which are puffy or oversized
Graham explained: “Although more common in winter, lightweight puffy jackets are sometimes worn on chilly spring mornings.
“However, they can create dangerous gaps between the harness and your child’s body. The added bulk gives the illusion of a snug fit, but in reality, the harness is too loose.”
He continued: “If a crash occurs, the padding compresses, leaving the straps slack and reducing their ability to restrain your child effectively.
Instead of dressing your child in a thick coat, opt for a light fleece jacket or a thin hoodie, which provide warmth without adding bulk. You can also place a warm blanket over them after they are securely strapped in for extra warmth.”
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