Proper fit and installation
When shopping for a car seat consider these five steps crucial to your child’s safety.
Selection
Find the best car seat for you
Choose a seat that best fits your child and your vehicle. Make sure features of the car seat are easy to use and understand, so you have confidence you’re installing it correctly.
Direction
Rear-Facing or Forward-Facing?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children remain in a rear-facing car seat as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the seat.
Location
Tight install every time
The safest seating position is the one that works best for your car seat, vehicle and family. Choose the location that provides the tightest installation every time using either seat belt or LATCH.
Installation
Read the manuals
Technology changes and manufacturers are always thinking of new ways to keep children safe. Be sure to read your vehicle and car seat manuals for proper instructions and to stay up to date.
Proper fit
Position harness straps and chest clip properly
In most car seats, manufacturers say the harness should be at or slightly below the child’s shoulders when rear-facing. For forward-facing children, place the harness at or slightly above the child’s shoulders. The harness should always be snug so you can’t pull the strap from the body or pinch the webbing together. The straps should be flat and untwisted, and the chest clip should be at armpit level.
