If you belong to a car pool for your child, take time to discuss theses important safety tips with the other parent-drivers.

• Do not rush. Being in a hurry can cause a crash, so leave enough time to pick up the children and get to the destination.
• Make sure all seat belts are working and adjusted to fit snugly across each child's lap and shoulder area.
• Younger children need booster seats. Adult seat belts don't fit properly and will not protect small children during sudden stops or in a crash. Booster seats give younger children the lift they need to make lap and shoulder belts work properly.
• Do not start the car until every child has secured his or her seat belt and the doors are locked. Instruct the kids to stay seated with their seat belts on at all times and to sit back in their seats.
• When you drop off children, make sure they exit the car from the non-traffic side of the vehicle.
• If your passengers are getting too noisy, rowdy or are not following directions, pull over and stop the car. Tell them their behavior is not acceptable.
• Do not allow children to throw items in or out of the car or stick their arms out of the windows.
• Meet the person who is driving your child's car pool. Make sure their vehicle is in good, working condition and check for seat belts. The driver should be licensed and responsible. The driver should respect your wishes and be willing to follow all safety recommendations and laws.
• Make sure there is a responsible adult waiting for the child upon drop-off. Do not leave a child alone.
• Know if any children you drive have a special medical need. Know how to reach the parent or other responsible individual in case of illness or injury. Have a well-stocked first aid kit in your car for emergencies.
• Make sure your child's school has the names of the designated drivers in your car pool.
• Cassette tapes of stories work well to entertain children in a car. Avoid having heavy toys or books that could become projectiles in a crash.
• Limit foods in your car to non-sticky items. Also, avoid foods that children make choke on, such as hard candy and peanuts.