1. Rules of the Road
There are national regulations in place regarding the type of child safety seat required for kids of various sizes. Complications arise because each state also has child restraint laws that vary widely from each other. By adhering to the most restrictive safety seat laws, you'll avoid accidentally breaking local laws and your child will be as safe and protected as possible.
2. Baby Gets a Rear View
Newborns and infants under a year of age that weigh less than 20 lbs. should be secured in a rear-facing infant seat located in the center of the backseat of the vehicle. Situating your baby in this manner helps disperse the energy of a collision throughout the vehicle, minimizing the energy that could harm the baby. Rear-facing is best for small children because it keeps the baby fully supported in the event of an accident. Instead of being pushed away from the infant seat, the baby and the seat would move in the same direction, lessening the impact to baby's bones and joints.
3. Looking Ahead
Kids ranging from one to four years who weigh more than 20 lbs. but less than 40 can ride in a child safety seat that faces forward. They should still be in the center of car's backseat to avoid injuries in the event of a side impact crash. Kids older than four who weigh more than 40 pounds can sit in a forward-facing booster seat. Boosters lift kids up so that the seat belts are properly positioned over their chest instead of riding up around their neck. In addition, once your child has outgrown a booster seat he should still ride in the back seat until he's 12.
4. Musical Safety Seats
Your child's age and weight are the most important things to consider when buying a child safety seat. Look for 5-point harness systems, which use 5 belts to secure your child. The more belts, the safer the seat. Never purchase a used car seat. Even if there's no visible damage, the car seat can be compromised, which makes its performance during a crash unreliable. Every seat should be replaced following any accident strong enough to cause dents or damage to the vehicle. You can expect to purchase 3 car seats to accommodate the growth of your child from infancy till that day when she can ride in the front seat.
5. Proper Installation is Crucial
Correct safety seat installation is critical ensuring a seat will be effective in an accident. Some car seats come with a leveling bubble to help parents know when the seat is properly installed. The best way to secure a safety seat is to put it in place in the car, use your knee to apply direct pressure and pull the seat belt as tightly as you can. Most states offer free checks to insure your car seat is properly installed. Check with your pediatrician or doctor's office to find out where you can
