Tips for travelling with children: Safety

28 July 2010 - During the summer period, each Wednesday you will find a new travel tip on our website. Today's topic: Safety.

• The safest way for baby to fly is in an approved car seat used as a flight seat or using a CARES flight harness. Check the base of your infant or toddler car seat to look for the ECE/FAA approved sticker. If you can't find one, check the manufacturer's instructions or contact the manufacturer to find out if the seat is approved for use in airplanes.
• If you are not able to purchase a seat for your child under 2 years old, you will be asked to hold your child on your lap. You must then comply with the local regulations for securing (or not securing) your child by means of a lap or belly belt during take-off, landing, and turbulence.
• In Europe, Asia, and Australasia you will be asked to secure your child on your lap using a lap or belly belt. In North America and Canada lap-held children under two years of age must be held on your lap or in the burping position without any form of harness.
• Seat your child away from an aisle: Small children enjoy reaching out and exploring, but if they are on the aisle they could get hurt if their little arms get bumped by a person or serving cart passing down the aisle.
• Due to aircraft air conditioning, dehydration can be a real problem for children.  Keep a bottle, sipper or straw cup topped up at all times and encourage children and infants to take regular drinks.