Child Car Seat Safety

Car Seat Selection

• Don’t decide by price alone, a higher price doesn’t always mean the seat is safer. Remember that all car seats for sale in the USA must meet government safety standards.
• Before purchasing a car seat you like, make sure to put your child in it to see if he/she fits into it properly. Car seats are designed for children of different ages, weights and seated heights.
• Be sure to purchase one that fits your car, car seats may fit differently in many models of cars and trucks.
• Make sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on the installation of your car seat. Keep in mind that pictures or displays of car seats may not show them being used the right way.

Important Safety Rules

• Always use a car seat from your baby’s first ride home from the hospital.
• NEVER place a rear facing car seat in front of an air bag this may cause serious injury or death. Babies must ride in rear facing car seats until they are 12 months of age and weigh 20 pounds. Both of these must be reached before they can be turned to forward facing.
• All children that are under the age of 13 are safest riding in the back seat of your vehicle.
• Be a good role model and always wear your seatbelt, this will help your child to form a lifelong habit of buckling their seatbelt.
• Used car seats can have cracks or missing parts, try to purchase a new seat for your child if possible. Replace any car seats that have been involved in vehicle accidents.
• Remember to also read your car owner’s manual for information about installing your car safety seat.