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.