Safe Kids USA Study Raises Concerns For Infant Head And Neck Safety
Study finds that less than 30% of parents are using car seats properly, raising chances of death and injury
Online, February 17, 2012 (Newswire.com) - WASHINGTON D.C. - According to the CDC, child safety seats reduce the risk of death in car crashes by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers ages one to four. A recent National Child Passenger Safety Week focused on educating parents and guardians in best practices for car seats to keep their precious cargo safe.
Safe Kids USA, a nonprofit safety organization, found that less than 30% of forward-facing child seats were tethered to the car at the top of the seat. A top tether is important for reducing the forward movement of a child's head in a crash. Infants and children under 48 pounds can suffer serious injuries to the spinal cord if their head snaps forward in a crash or sudden stop because of developing neck muscles.
One invention designed to keep a child's neck comfortable during this vulnerable time of development has recently emerged on the market. Nodstop® is a soft, stretchy headband that is designed to go around the back of a car seat or stroller and helps anchor the head and neck in place. While Nodstop® can never replace proper car seat use, it can be used in tandem to keep your child's head comfortable. It has an adjustable strap that fits a variety of car seats and strollers, and the fleece-covered elastic band is completely washable.
The inventor, Jill Ehlers of Central Point, Oregon, initially developed the product when she was having trouble with neck comfort when flying. Nodstop® soon proved to have many applications, helping the disabled, infants, and others with low muscle tone in their shoulders and neck to stay safe and comfortable while traveling.
About Nodstop®
Nodstop® is a patented headband made of soft fleece or wicking polyester designed to provide superior head support for a variety of uses and conditions. It is comprised of an elastic band covered with soft material and secured with hook-and-loop straps. It is available in a variety of lengths to accommodate many different widths of seatbacks - from wheelchairs to small strollers and car seats to the widest recliner. Various sized caps and hats may be attached to help provide stability during use and prevent the band from slipping down. Nodstop® is packaged in a compact, rip stop nylon bag that fits easily in purse, briefcase or carry-on. Nodstop®: Heads up, Comfort on. www[dot]nodstop[dot]com