SRHS - Women's Services - Car Seat Information

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Car Seat Safety

You must have your infant in a car seat at all times when riding in the car. It’s not only safer, it’s the law. Make sure the seat you have says “dynamically or crash tested,” and that it meets the requirements of Federal Vehicle Safety Standard 213. Car seats should be placed in the middle of the back seat and should face the rear until the baby weighs 20 pounds and is one year old. Never put a baby in a front seat where there is an airbag. It is also important to make sure your baby’s car seat is installed properly and that it is an appropriate seat for the weight of your child. Following are some handouts from www.carseat.org that you may find useful.

Title Description

Rules for Carpools Tips about buckling up and other safety guidelines for carpooling

Make Every Ride a Safe Ride Dangers of not buckling up children; basic guidelines for families

Recycled Car Seats Explains why car seats should not bought at garage sales or thrift shops

Shoulder Belt Positioning Devices Explains lack of federal standards, possible dangers, alternative products

Which is "the best" safety seat for my child?
Explains how to select restraint to fit child

How to Choose a Booster Seat for Your Child Guidelines for size, fit, and usage; list of belt-positioning boosters with weight ranges and features.

Selecting the Appropriate Safety Seat for Your Child
Chart for restraint selection

"Boosters Are For Big Kids" Flyer
5-Step Test with picture showing belt fit with and without booster

Why must babies under one year of age ride facing the back of the car?
Explains risk of severe spinal injury

"But my child won't stay in the car seat!"
Helpful hints for parents

New Warning for Parents Recommends buckling lap-shoulder belts when using LATCH

Click here to see more car seat information for pre-term babies.