Car Seat Instruction

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children between the ages of 1 and 14 in the United States. Our goal is to ensure that all children are appropriately restrained in vehicles. Here are some tips to help keep your children safe in the car.

Remember: Car seats must be used correctly to be effective! Be sure to always read and follow both the vehicle owner's manual and the car seat instructions.

 

Step 1: Rear-Facing Car Seat

  • All infants should ride rear-facing in either an infant-only car seat or convertible car seat.
  • If an infant-only car seat is used, the infant should be switched to a rear-facing convertible car seat once the maximum height or weight limits for the infant-only seat has been reached.
  • Many infant-only seats have maximum limits ranging from 20-32 lbs and 26-32 inches and should only be used rear-facing. Check your labels carefully.
  • Rear-facing is best. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children stay rear-facing in a convertible seat at least until age 2, or until they reach the maximum height/weight limit (often 30-35lbs & up to 36 inches).
  • Never put a rear-facing seat in front of an airbag.
  • The seat should be semi-reclined at a 30°- 45° angle.
  • Place the child's harness straps through the slots at or below the shoulder level. Place the harness clip at child's armpit level.
  • Tighten the harness straps so they are snug. You should not be able to pinch any slack in the harness.
  • The car seat should be locked into place allowing less than 1" of movement at the belt path. Make sure the correct belt path is used.

 

Step 2: Forward-facing Car Seat

  • Children who have outgrown their rear-facing seat may ride forward-facing in an appropriate car seat.
  • Place the harness straps at or above the shoulders. Place the harness clip at armpit level.
  • Tighten the harness straps so they are snug. You should not be able to pinch any slack in the harness.
  • The car seat should be locked into place allowing less than 1" of movement at the belt path. Make sure the correct belt path is used.
  • Tethers are recommended for forward facing seats. (Note: If seat is installed with the lower anchors you MUST use the tether also.)

 

Step 3: Belt Positioning Booster

  • Preferably for kids who are at least 4 years old and who weigh at least 40lbs. Both highback and backless booster seats are available (maximum weight typically 80 or 100lbs).
  • Always use with a lap and shoulder seat belt. Never use a lap-only seat belt with a booster.
  • Head support is very important. Make sure the child has head support from the booster or from the vehicle's head rest.

 

Step 4: Seat Belts

  • For most children who are at least 4' 9" tall (generally 8 years old and up).
  • Children under 13 years old should ride in the back seat.
  • Lap and shoulder seat belts provide the best protection. Don't let kids tuck the shoulder belt under an arm or behind their back.
  • Remember everyone should always buckle up on every ride!

 

Additional resources:

For more information about Child Passenger Safety and many other Child Safety topics please visit the Children's Wellness and Safety Center.

For more information, please call the Safety Store at St. Joseph's Children's Hospital (813) 554-8510.