Kids around parked cars, from backovers to power windows

A backover usually happens when a car pulls out of a driveway or a parking space and the driver doesn't see a child behind it. The smaller the child, the less likely you are to see them. A parked car holds other dangers for a child too, from power windows and seat belts to the trunk and a car that rolls away.

Before you back up

• Walk all the way around the carA backup camera or sensor helps, but it can't replace walking around the car and checking.
• Have children stand to the side of the driveway where you can see them
• Roll the windows down so you can hear outside
• Back up slowly, checking the mirrors and looking behind youA child can dash behind the car without warning.
• Keep toys and bikes out of the driveway
• Teach children to move away from a car when someone gets in or starts it

Power windows and seat belts

• Turn on the power window lock switchChildren can catch a finger, wrist or hand in a closing window, and some have been strangled.
• Look for hands, feet and heads before you raise a window
• Keep children buckled into a car seat or seat beltA child who's buckled in can't reach the window and sunroof switches.
• Buckle the seat belts nobody is usingMost seat belts lock when they're pulled all the way out. A child who wraps one around the head, neck or waist may not be able to get free.
• Never let a child lie down or sleep across the seat instead of being buckled in

The trunk, the keys and the brake

• Show children the glow-in-the-dark release inside the trunkNew cars have had one since September 2001.
• Check the trunk first if a child goes missingA trunk heats up fast, and a child trapped inside can die of heatstroke or suffocation.
• Keep the rear fold-down seats closed and lockedChildren can climb from the back seat into the trunk.
• Lock the car and keep the keys and remote out of children's reach
• Never leave the key in the car, or in the on or accessory position
• Shift into Park and set the parking brake every time you parkA car with push-button start can still roll if it's turned off without being shifted into Park.