Cars are essential for many Americans, offering the freedom to travel as needed. While modern vehicles come equipped with numerous features for convenience and safety, there are some important aspects of car safety that often go overlooked. Here are five crucial tips from Janette Fennell, founder and president of the Kids and Cars safety organization, that every car owner should know:|
1. **Carbon Monoxide Awareness:**
Modern cars are highly efficient and often very quiet, which can lead to dangerous situations. If you accidentally leave your car running in the garage, the carbon monoxide can build up and pose a serious health risk. To protect yourself and your family, install a carbon monoxide detector in your home, preferably near the garage area.
2. **Window Breaker Tool:**
In emergencies where you might need to escape your vehicle quickly, such as if you’re trapped or if there’s a flood, having a window breaker tool can be lifesaving. Devices like the Resqme window breaker are designed to cut seatbelts and shatter windows, providing a crucial escape route in critical situations.
3. **Power Window Safety:**
Power windows can pose a danger, especially to small children. A car’s automatic windows can exert significant force, which can cause injury. Ensure your car’s windows have a safety feature called “auto-reverse,” which detects obstructions and prevents the window from closing on them. You can test this feature by placing a soft object like a roll of toilet paper in the window’s path and checking if it rolls back down.
4. **Transmission Lock Function:**
Automatic transmissions include a safety feature called the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI). This system prevents the gear shift from moving out of “Park” unless the brake pedal is pressed. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to understand how this feature works in your car and ensure it’s functioning properly.
5. **Trunk Release Mechanism:**
Most cars manufactured since 2002 are equipped with an interior trunk release mechanism for safety. Familiarize yourself with its location and operation, and make sure all passengers, especially children, know how to use it. For added visibility, consider a glow-in-the-dark release handle.
While cars offer incredible convenience and freedom, being aware of these safety features can help protect you and your family in unexpected situations.
