Think of your child's car seat as one of the best protections that you can offer your little one while traveling in a vehicle. However, regardless of the brand, the cost, or the safety ratings of the seat, a poorly installed or improperly used seat can be a death trap.

Some of the common mistakes to avoid when using a baby car seat are as follows:

1: Improper size- Follow the manufacturer's weight and height guidelines when buying and using a car seat. A newborn infant is too small for a forward facing upright seat, and a 18 month old toddler is too big for a rear facing infant seat. Know when to move your child into larger seats.

2: Improperly installed- Installing a car seat is more than just threading the seat belt through the provided slots. To properly install a child's car seat, place your full weight on the seat before latching the belt. Doing so ensures that the belt will firmly hold the seat in place. If you are using a removable infant seat with a base, put the seat on the base before strapping it in. Use tether latches in vehicles equipped with them, and the locking clips provided with most car seats. Locking clips help keep the belt from slipping or loosening over time and can help prevent you from having to constantly tighten the belt. Most police departments, fire departments and health departments will assist you in installation if you need it.

3: Out of date- Yes...your car seat may have an expiration date! While not all seats have this, if your child's car seat has a "Do not use after XX-XX-XXX" on it, discontinue use by that date. The maker can no longer ensure your child's safety, even if the seat was properly installed and used if you continue using it after the expiration date.

4: Front seat- This is a very dangerous place for children, especially for newborns and infants. Although with some vehicles (trucks, sports cars, etc.) this cannot be prevented. If your car is equipped with air bags, make sure that you have the passenger side one turned off.

5: Hand-me-down seats- While a money saver for cash strapped parents, hand-me-down seats can carry a risk. If you accept one, make sure that you are also given the original hardware that came with the seat (locking clips, tether straps), the user's manual, and that the seat has never been in a wreck. Car seats should not be used after they have been involved in a wreck because they may have suffered some damage and can no longer guarantee the safety of a child.

Car seats can save your child's life if used correctly. Make sure to read the owner's manual that came with the seat and to follow the manufacturer's directions and recommendations to ensure your child's safety.

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