Airbags

• Before using a car seat, carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions and keep them with the car seat. Make sure that you understand them and are able to use the car seat correctly every time. Also, check your vehicle owner’s manual for special warnings and/or instructions for installing the car seat.
• Check the size and weight restrictions on the car seat to make sure that it is appropriate for your child.
• Send in the registration card to the manufacturer and check periodically with the manufacturer to see if your seat has been recalled.
• Only use a car seat that fits properly in your car whether in the forward-facing or rear-facing position. Every seat does not always fit in every car.
• Never install a rear-facing car seat in a vehicle seat position equipped with an airbag.
• Keep the seat rear-facing until the child is 1 year, no matter the child’s weight.
• The safest seating location for your child’s car seat is the rear seat.
• Make sure the car seat is securely anchored. When you pull the base forward and side-to-side, it should move less than one inch.
• Never use a child car seat in a seat position where there is no lap belt, or in front seats equipped with automatic (passive) seat belts. Lap belts are required to securely hold a car seat.
• Frequently check the harness straps of your car seat and the combination lap/shoulder belt of your vehicle for a snug fit.
• Make certain the harness straps remain high and snug on your child’s shoulders – you should not be able to place more than 1 finger between a harness strap and your child’s chest. Always use the car seat’s harness tie (clip) to keep the harness straps in place at armpit level.
• Never leave sharp or heavy objects, including unoccupied safety car seats or groceries, loose in the vehicle and choose children’s activity toys carefully. Remember, any loose object can become deadly in a sudden stop or vehicle crash.
• Do not use a car seat after it has been in an accident, even though damage is not visibly apparent. Some insurance companies will replace a car seat after an accident.
• Set a good example for your child – buckle-up your seat belt every time you travel in your vehicle.

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