Top Tips for Car Seat Safety

1. Prioritize Rear-Facing Seats:

   • Keep infants in rear-facing car seats as long as possible, ideally until age 2 or until they reach the seat's maximum height and weight limits, which often range between 30 and 40 pounds.
   • Rear-facing is safest for young children, offering the best protection in case of an accident.

2. Proper Recline Angle:

   • Ensure the car seat is semi-reclined, with an angle no greater than 45 degrees. This position helps keep your baby’s head in contact with the seat, reducing the risk of airway obstruction.
   • Always consult the car seat manual for specific recline instructions. Park the vehicle on level ground during installation.

3. Harness Fit & Position:

   • Adjust harness straps snugly so you cannot pinch the webbing at your child’s shoulder, providing maximum security.
   • Place shoulder straps through the slots at or below shoulder level for rear-facing seats.
   • Ensure the chest clip is positioned at armpit level for optimal safety.

4. Installation Security:

   • Use either the car’s seat belt or the LATCH system, not both, to lock the car seat into position.
   • Once installed, the car seat should not move more than one inch in any direction when tested at the belt or LATCH path.

5. Check for Expiration Dates:

   • Car seats generally expire six to ten years after manufacture. Look for an expiration date on the seat or contact the manufacturer.
   • Avoid using secondhand seats unless you know the seat’s complete history. Never use a car seat that has been involved in a crash.

6. Avoid Unauthorized Products:

   • Only use items provided or approved by the car seat’s manufacturer. Third-party fabrics or add-on toys can compromise safety in a crash.

7. Back Seat Placement:

   • Rear-facing seats should never be placed in front of an active airbag. The safest location for all children is the back seat.

8. Regular Safety Checks:

   • Have a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician check your car seat to ensure it is installed correctly.

9. Never Leave a Child Unattended:

   • Do not leave children alone in a vehicle, even for a minute. Heat, cold, and other hazards pose significant risks.

Forward-Facing Transition Tips

Consider switching to a forward-facing seat only when your child is at least two years old and has outgrown the height or weight limit of the rear-facing car seat. Here are two questions to guide your decision:

• Has your child exceeded the rear-facing seat’s weight or height limits?
• Is your child’s head within one inch of the car seat top?

For peace of mind and expert assistance, call NHAA at 717-354-6945, ext 1 to schedule your free car seat safety check.