There's plenty to do, people to see, and places to visit this summer. We're looking forward to adventures of our own here at Leith Toyota, and we're dedicated to making sure yours are as fun and as safe as possible--especially where the kids are concerned. A staggering 3 out of 4 car sears are incorrectly installed, which is just crazy, especially since motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of death among children.

Luckily, Toyota and Buckle Up for Life, the national car seat safety program from Cincinnati Children’s, have teamed up to give you the following car safety tips:

The Inch Test & the Pinch Test

With your child fully belted and buckled into their car seat, pinch the strap near their shoulder. If you can pinch a wrinkle of fabric, tighten the belt until it's snug. As for the "inch" test, try to tug the seat from side to side and front to back. If it moves more than an inch in any direction, tighten it.

Extra Padding = Bad Idea

Though the back of a car seat might get hot, putting a towel or blanket between your child and their seat can be dangerous. Never put anything in or on the car seat that wasn't designed to go there by the manufacturer--it may compromise the seat in the event of a crash.

Cool Off, Then Buckle Up

Speaking of hot weather, remember that the metal or plastic parts of a car seat may get extremely hot during even a short period of time in the sun. If the seat's too hot for your child to sit in it comfortably, turn on the car and run the A/C for a bit until it cools off.

A Rented Car Seat's Not For You

Renting a car at your vacation destination is fine--renting a car seat isn't. A car seat whose history you don't know might mean you've gotten one that's already been in an accident, is past its expiration date, etc. Luckily, many airlines will allow you to check your own car seat for free, so bring it with you when you travel.

Secure Your Gear

It's fun to bring books, coolers, umbrellas, and more to the beach or pool, but remember that anything that isn't securely stowed may turn into a 25 mph+ projectile if you get into an accident. Keep your kids (and yourself) safe by tightly securing any loose objects in your vehicle before hitting the road.