At its most basic, gate checking is a security measure used to keep unauthorized people (excluding members of your party) from entering a designated area. While it may seem like a simple thing to do, there are some misconceptions about the practice that you should be aware of before implementing it in your business. In this article, we will explore the six biggest myths about gate checking and dispel them so you can make an informed decision about whether or not to implement this security measure.
What is a Gate Check?
A gate check is a safety measure that some parents take to ensure their child’s safety when travelling in a new car. Gate checking means physically checking the car seat to make sure it is properly installed and buckled into place.
Gate checks should only be performed on newly acquired cars seats. If you have a car seat that is more than five years old, it is not necessary to perform a gate check. Older seats may not meet current safety standards and could result in your child suffering serious injury in an accident.
Why Would I Gate Check My Car Seat?
Gate checking your car seat is a good way to avoid the risk of your child being lost in a vehicle. Gate checking can also help keep other passengers safe by ensuring that the child is safely secured in their car seat.
When gate checking your car seat, make sure to follow these tips:
-Check the expiration date of the car seat and make sure it has not expired.
-Double check that the car seat is properly secured in place.
-Ensure that the straps are tight and evenly spaced across the chest and back of the child.
-Check for any tears or holes in the straps.
How to Gate Check Your Car Seat
If you’re planning on travelling with your child in a car seat, it’s important to gate check the seat. Here’s how:
Gating means checking that all the hardware and fabrics of a car seat are securely fastened in place. Make sure the straps are tight and that no excess fabric is hanging down. You should also check for any tears or holes in the fabric.
You can do a visual gate check by looking inside the car seat from the outside and making sure there are no obstructions between you and the baby. You can also do an audio gate check by putting your ear up against the side of the seat and listening for any noises coming from inside. Finally, you can do a physical gate check by lifting up one corner of the carseat cover and peeking inside.
If you find any problems with your car seat when you gate check it, don’t try to fix them on the spot – take it back to where you bought it for repairs or replacements.
What to Do If I Forget to Gate Check My Car Seat
If you forget to gate check your car seat, the safest option is to leave it in your vehicle. This means that if there is an accident, the seat could potentially go flying into the air and injure you or a child in the car.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the decision of whether or not to gate check your car seat will vary depending on the age and weight of your child, as well as their habitual safety behaviours. However, if you are at all worried about your child’s safety when travelling in a motor vehicle, it might be a good idea to gate check their car seat.