What basic action should caregivers take to enhance child safety in vehicles?

Using a car seat that is appropriate for the child's development is critical for enhancing safety in vehicles. Car seats are designed to provide the best protection for children based on their age, weight, and height. There are different types of car seats, including infant seats, convertible seats, and booster seats, each suited for specific stages of a child's growth.

When caregivers select the correct type of car seat that meets federal safety standards and is appropriate for the child's size and developmental needs, they significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of a crash. Proper usage of a car seat includes both ensuring that the child is harnessed correctly and that the car seat itself is installed correctly in the vehicle.

In contrast, while securing the vehicle before exiting and using booster seats are also important safety considerations, they do not directly pertain to the fundamental requirement of choosing the right car seat for a child's safety. Regular seat belts are designed for older children and adults, and are not safe for younger children who still require car seats due to their developing bodies. Therefore, option B is essential to optimal child passenger safety practices.