Car Seats

It's the law for a very precious reason. A correctly used car seat can reduce the chance of serious injury by 70%. All children are required to ride buckled up in a child safety seat, booster seat, or seat belt, appropriate for their weight and size. Here are some helpful hints that may help when shopping for a child safety seat.

All fifty states require that parents have a car seat that meets federal safety standards before their baby may leave the hospital. So before you consider outfitting the nursery, equip your car for safety.

	Always check labels to make sure the car seat you choose meets current federal safety standards. Never use a used car seat; safety standards and laws are continually updated and changed. In addition, if a car seat was involved in an accident, it cannot be used. it is recommended that car seats be disposed of and replaced every 6 years.
	When choosing a car seat the type and year of the vehicle may determine your selection. Cars manufactured after Sept. 1, 2002 use a LATCH-equipped car seat with lower anchor attachments and top-tether anchors. Cars manufactured before Sept. 1, 2002 will use the car’s seat belt system to safely secure the car seat in place.
	Safety includes how well your child is harnessed into their seat. Make allowances for seasonal clothing and check the straps for a proper fit each time you put your child in the seat. Straps should be snug. You should be able to pass no more than one finger between the shoulder harness and the child's collarbone. The harness retainer clip (or the chest clip) should always be secured at the lever of the child's armpit.
	Consider your routines and your preferences when choosing an infant car seat carrier. Many people find it much more convenient to have a second base for their other car. A properly installed base is essential when transporting your new baby. (Have your car seat checked by a certified car seat technician. To find one nearest to you go to www.seatcheck.org)
	Children grow and change. Their car seats should too. You must consider the height and weight of your child before you buy.
	Children under 20 lbs and less than 1 year old must ride rear facing in an infant or convertible a car safety seat. Always install your car safety seat in the back seat of your vehicle, preferably in the middle position.
	All 50 states require that parents have a car sect that meets federal safety standards before their baby may leave the hospital, So before you consider outfitting the nursery, equip your car for safety.

Keep It Safe

Children grow and change. Their car seats should too. Consider the height and weight of your child before you buy.

	Children under 20 lbs and less than 1 year old must ride rear facing in an infant or convertible safety seat. Always install your car safety seat in the back seat of your vehicle, preferably in the middle position.
	Children larger than 20 lbs and older than 1 year can now ride facing forward in a convertible or forward facing child safety seat.
	8 years olf, 80 lbs or 4'9" tall is the recommended age, weight and height (by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) that a child should be secured in a car seat.

For more information on choosing the right car seat for your child call the National Highway Safety Council at 1-630-285-1121. 1121 Spring Lake Drive, PO Box 558, Itasca, IL 60143