We've all heard the mantra "Buckle up for safety!" but it's particularly true for our tiniest travelers, who are at much greater risk of injury in the event of a car accident. If you're traveling with a child 4 years or under, and have been unable to get a CRS (Child Restraint System or carseat) from a car rental agency or local party rental store (great source for strollers, cribs, high chairs, too), there's a welcome resource.

In the New York metropolitan area, the Automobile Association of America has begun lending federally approved safety seats to members for up to two weeks, at no cost. In  New York state, all children under the age of 4 are required to ride in a safety seat, and children 4-6 years must be seated in a booster seat unless they are above 100 lbs. or 57" tall. AAA has a limited number of loaner seats in various sizes.

This excellent service, which may soon be available at an AAA branch near you, offers rear-facing infant seats, front-facing infant/toddler seats and booster seats.  Visitors to the NY metropolitan region should call 212/586-1166; 718/224-2222 or 914/948-4600, ext 2364 or email: webtraficeng@aaany.com to make a reservation.

Requests for a loaner must be accompanied by your AAA membership number; pick-up date; nearest branch office for pick-up; age, hieght and weight of child; daytime phone number for confirmation.