Keep Kids Safe During Holiday Travels

Traveling for the holidays? You’re not alone. According to the AAA year-end forecast, more than 115 million Americans will be on the move over the holidays this year. So, however you’re getting from point A to B, prepare for it to be busy. Leave plenty of time to account for traffic, expect crowds, and remember, if you’ll be traveling with children, their safety must come first.

Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital shares tips that will help you keep your little one safe.

Adults often complain about the stress of holiday travel, but it’s important to remember that children are not immune to anxiety. Plan ahead to try and stick to your family’s normal routines and sleep schedules as much as possible. Doing so can help minimize children’s stress and maximize their fun during the holiday season.

When taking a train or airplane, it may seem inconvenient to have to worry about child safety seats. But parents should make sure their children ride in an age-appropriate car seat or booster seat.

• Get your child's car seat checked to make sure it is safe. Free car seat checks by certified child passenger safety technicians are available through LVHN at LVHN.org/stayingsafe as well as at these local inspection stations.
• Even if it’s cold outside, children should avoid wearing bulky snowsuits or coats in their car seats. Instead, opt for a thinner coat and cover their lap with a blanket once they are buckled in.
• Older children who no longer require car seats should always wear a seat belt. Adults should set a good example and wear a safety belt on every ride too.
• Drivers should never get behind the wheel if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Once you get your family to where you’re going, don’t assume the homes of friends or relatives are childproofed. Be aware of potential risks – such as cleaning products or medications – that may be hidden behind unlocked cabinets or in unattended purses, but will be easily accessible to your curious child.

Other potential household dangers that you should be aware of:

• Laundry rooms – where cleaning products or detergent pods may be out in the open
• Stairways – that may not be blocked with a gate
• Electrical outlets – could expose your child to a shock hazard
• Hot radiators – may pose a burn risk especially if your child is unfamiliar with them
• Candles – need to be out of reach, particularly if lit, but also if they are in glass holders that can shatter if dropped