While providing plenty of warmth over winter, a safety expert is encouraging parents not to to strap their children into a car seat while wearing a popular clothing item.
Head of Kidsafe in Australia Holly Fitzgerald said in the event of a crash, a puffer jacket could in fact make things worse for a restrained youngster.
That's because even at low speeds, the air in the jacket can compress, creating a dangerous slack in the harness, she told 9 News.
"We don't want any air pockets or padding between the harness traps and the child's body," Fitzgerald said.
A crash test dummy has highlighted how the bulky coats can compromise the safety of kids in car seats. (Source: 1News)
When first strapped in while wearing a puffer jacket a child may appear secure.
Once the jacket is removed, however, there is slack in the straps - highlighting the potential danger.
"In the event of a sudden stop, the child may be flung out or ejected from the child car restraint," she added.
There is also a risk of children overheating while wearing the jacket - with the snug safety seat already adding a layer of insulation.
Plunket had advice about using child car seats safely on its website.
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