While installing and using child safety seats may appear to be easy enough, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has estimated that close to 3 out of 4 parents do not properly use child restraints.
Basic Child Safety Seat Guidelines:
- Always buckle up children 12 years and under in the back seat.
- Always use a safety seat appropriate for the child’s age, weight and height.
- Never place a rear facing child seat in the front seat of a vehicle where an airbag is present.
- Always install and use the child seat correctly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Always set a good example by wearing your own seat belt.
Infants
Birth to 1 year and 20 lbs or less, use a rear facing infant seat
Less than 1 year and 20-35 lbs, use a rear facing convertible seat recommended for heavier infants
Toddlers
1 to 4 years and 20-40 lbs, use a forward facing convertible seat or high back booster with harness
Younger Kids
4 to 8 years, at least 40 lbs, and less than 4 ft 9 in, use a forward facing belt positioning booster seat
Older Kids
Over 8 years or at least 4 ft 9 in, use a lap belt that is snug and low over the upper thighs, not over the abdomen, and a shoulder belt that is snug across the chest.
The Barrington Hills Police Department has several certified car seat technicians who are able to inspect and install child safety seats for residents of Barrington Hills. Please contact Sgt. David Kann at 847-551-3006 to schedule a car seat inspection.
