By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Pregnant individuals can safely drive and ride in a vehicle, but proper precautions are key to protecting both parent and baby. Ahead of tonight’s Community Baby Shower at the Hoisington Activity Center, Felicia Fyler, a prenatal vehicle safety specialist at the Barton County Health Department, offered some driving safety tips for expecting mothers.
“Wearing your seatbelt correctly is one of the most important parts,” Fyler said. “The lap belt should go under the belly, snug across the hips and upper thighs, not across the stomach. The shoulder belt should sit between the breasts and off to the side of the belly. Adjust your seat so you can press the brake pedal all the way to the floor with the ball of your foot on the pedal, and grasp the top of the steering wheel with your elbows slightly bent.”
The steering wheel should be tilted so the airbag points at the chest, not the stomach. Airbags deploy in a matter of milliseconds at speeds up to 200 miles per hour, but they should not be turned off.
“Airbags are actually very important, and should not be turned off,” said Fyler. “They work together with the seatbelts to provide the best protection. Just make sure to sit as far back from the steering wheel or dashboard as comfortably possible, ideally about 10 inches away.”
Tonight’s Community Baby Shower, presented by the Barton County Health Department, will run from 4-6:30 p.m. The event is open to all members of the community, but especially new and expecting mothers and family members. Numerous door prizes and gifts will be handed out, and several vendors will be on hand to offer information.