The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is advising parents and caregivers not to place children in car seats while wearing bulky coats.
According to NHTSA, thick or puffy coats can create extra space between a child and the car seat harness, which prevents the harness from fitting snugly. A loose harness may reduce the car seat’s ability to protect a child during a crash.
NHTSA states that thinner layers provide the same warmth while allowing the car seat harness to fit properly. When lightweight layers are worn, the harness can be tightened correctly and remain snug against the child’s body.
Parents are encouraged to ensure the harness fits closely after buckling, without extra looseness caused by bulky outerwear.
Photo credits to NHTSA