Your safety. It's worth a second thought.

Are you and your child passengers properly restrained while driving?

Did you know that everyday 4 children under the age of 14 are killed and another 622 are seriously injured in the United States as a result of motor vehicle accidents? Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of unintentional deaths to children under 14.

A 2004 study by the GHSB noted that "when children were observed in the front passenger seat, their belt usage was 79 percent. Though children represent a portion of belted passengers...they should not be riding in the front seat at all." Last year Massachusetts law enforcement officials issued 1,060 violations for unrestrained children.

Tips for "best practices" when driving with children passengers:

• Children from birth to 1 year and less than 20 pounds in weight must be in a rear facing infant seat.
• Children over 1 year and weigh 20 to 40 pounds in weight can be in a forward facing car seat. Some seats allow rear-facing at higher weights. (Check manufacturers labels and instructions)
• Children over 40 pounds and under 80 pounds in weight should be in a booster seat, which assists in the proper fit of the vehicle safety belt.
• Children under 13 years of age should not ride in the front seat.
• All children should be riding in the back seat and away from air bags.
• Always wear your lap and shoulder belt when driving -- it protects you in case of a crash and it sets a good example for children.