Lack of Knowledge about Safety Procedures for Children in Autos

Abstract

There is cause for concern for the safety of children in automobiles because many have been killed or seriously injured in automobile accidents. Had appropriate safety measures been taken in many of these cases, the injuries might not have occurred or might have been less serious. Presumably most caregivers desire to incorporate good safety procedures in their efforts. Failure to do so may indicate lack of understanding by caregivers. The present studies were designed to examine the extent to which people in general are aware of some of the safety measures to be used with children. Two similar questionnaires were used in examining this awareness. Both studies supported the notion that knowledge about safe location for children in the automobiles and about use of safety devices is limited and could be the cause of many unnecessary injuries to children.