Forward-Facing Child Safety Seat

In today’s highly mobile society, children travel more than ever. Sadly, this mobility comes at a staggering price. In 2007, more than 1,600 kids died and over 200,000 were injured in car crashes – enough to rank motor vehicle crashes as a leading cause of death for children in the U.S. Tragically, many of these deaths could have been prevented. Research shows that seat belts and safety seats – when properly used -are the most effective tools in preventing injuries and deaths in vehicle crashes.

Who:

• More than 1 year
• And at least 20-40 pounds

What:

• Forward -Facing Child Safety Seat

Why:

• These seats include an internal harness system that keeps your child properly restrained and snug straps that limit forward motion, providing greater “ride down.” The forward-facing position provides for the even distribution of physical forces over the child’s body in the event of a crash.

Be Sure:

• Harness straps at or above shoulder level.
• Most forward-facing seats require the top slot for the harness.
• ALWAYS in the back seat!

Installation:

Did you know that 8 out of 10 car seats are installed incorrectly? It is a staggering fact that many car seats are not installed correct. Be sure to read your vehicle owner’s manual and car seat instruction manual before you install your safety seat. Here are some tips to remember as you install your seat:

• Forward-facing seats should be installed in the back seat of your vehicle.
• The center seating position is ideal if it can be used since it is the farthest away from any point of impact.
• The seat should be installed using either the LATCH system or vehicle safety belt, never both.
• If using the seat belt to install your safety seat, make sure the belt is locked and can hold the safety seat in tight.
• The seat should not be able to move more than one inch in any direction when testing where the belt goes through.
• Never install anything under or behind your forward-facing safety seat.
• Harnesses should be at or above your child’s shoulders when forward-facing.
• The harnesses should be snug and lie flat your child’s shoulders, you should not be able to pinch any slack.
• The chest clip should be positioned at armpit level, right across your the sternum. This protects soft tissue and helps keep the straps on your child.
• Be sure not to use any aftermarket accessories such as mirrors and metal roller shades, these items could come undone in a crash or sudden stop and injure people in your vehicle.
• Secure any loose items such as purses, briefcases, toys and umbrellas when you travel so they do not injury anyone.

There are certified technicians available to help you install your safety seat. Call 1-866-SEAT-CHECK 1-866-SEAT-CHECK to find a certified technician in your area.