Installing a Car Seat
Tips to safely install a car seat
I vividly remember the day that we bought our first child home from the hospital. It was cloudy and chilly and she was a tiny thing in her car seat. My husband and brother-in-law both new to car seats were struggling to install her car seat as I waited with a nurse. One of the security guards, a dad of three walked up to my husband and shared a few tips with him on how to safely install a car seat. That was more than six years ago but my husband and I always make the effort to pay it forward and pass along tips to other new parents when we see them struggling to install car seats. Here are a few tips to ensure that your child's seat is installed safely.
Install car seat in the correct direction.
Depending on your child?s age and size their car seat would be either front or rear facing. Always ensure that your child's car seat is facing the correct direction. It'?s advised that all children 2 and under are in rear facing car seats.
Take advantage of the LATCH system.
Most modern vehicles are equipped with the LATCH system and have anchors that allows you to secure your child?s car seat. Be sure to use both the tethers and anchors to secure your child's car seat in a firm position. Always read instructions. Even if this isn't your first time installing a car seat, be sure to read the instructions as different car seats have unique features and/or installation instructions. Also, most brands offer great customer service assistance options to make the installation process easier.
Secure booster seats too.
As kids grow older and move to booster seats it?s easy to overlook the installation or even leave it to older kids but it's equally important to ensure that their seats are also installed properly.
Avoid Big Coats
Be sure to remove your child's coat when he/she is riding in their car seat. A big coat can be safety hazard for infants.
Shop around for options.
Some car seats are easier to install than others. Be sure to shop around for seats that you?re comfortable installing. Seek help of a professional. If you?re having a really hard time installing a seat or don't feel confident about an installation seek some professional help.