Child safety seats can be confusing. What to buy? What size? Face forward or backward? In this article we will tell you the differences between the different types of car seats.
For infants: Place an infant in a Rear Facing Infant Seat in the back seat of your vehicle. You should use the rear facing infant seat for at least the first year of your baby’s life. The baby should weigh 20 pounds before graduating to the next seat.
For older babies: Place a child 20-40 pounds in a Forward Facing Toddler Seat in the back seat of your vehicle. You should use this type of car seat between the ages one and four.
For children: Children ages four and at least 40 pounds to age eight, unless child is 4’ 9”, should use a Booster Seat. This seat should be placed in the back seat of your vehicle.
For older children: All children not placed in a child safety seat should wear a seat belt.
Here are a few safety tips:
All children 12 and younger should sit in the back seat away from air bags.
With booster seats, always use a lap and shoulder belt
Never place a shoulder belt behind a child’s back or under the arm
Replace any car seat that has been in a crash
When using a Second Hand Car Seat:
Check to see is the company is still in business and if the instruction booklet is available
All safety seats should have a current FM213 compliance label
Safety seats manufactured before 9/1/99 may not be able to use a top tether
A safety seat should not be more than six years old
Make sure that the safety seat has not been recalled
Ask if seat has been in a crash
Make sure all parts are in good condition
Safety seats that are purchased at a yard sale usually do not come with a history report. Sometimes it is not such a bargain when considering your child’s safety. Remember that all children 12 and under should ride in the back due to air bags. The back seat is the safest place for children.
