Cars Safety

Car Safety

Car Seats and Belts

As children grow, it’s important to select a car seat that fits them (size and age). Installation is important – not all car seats fit in all cars and incorrect installation reduces the seat’s ability to keep children safe.

• Rear-Facing (Birth – 2 years): These seats have a harness and position your child so he/she is facing the back of the car. This is the safest position to protect your child’s neck and spinal cord. There are three types of rear-facing car seats: rear-facing only seat, convertible seat and the 3-in-1 seat. If you have an infant rear-facing only seat, your baby may outgrow that seat by 7-8 months. You should then buy a convertible seat and keep the child rear-facing until age 2, or until he/she reaches the height and weight limit allowed for the seat.
• Forward-Facing (Over 2 years): Your child is ready to ride in a forward-facing seat when he/she has outgrown their rear-facing seat. These seats have a harness (five-point restraint) and can sometimes also transition into a booster.
• Booster (Typically 4-8 years): Boosters “boost” your child’s height so the seatbelt fits properly when he/she is ready to wear one. You can find them with or without a back. Even in a booster, your child should always sit in the back seat.
• Seat belt (Over 8 years): Once your child can fit in a seat belt properly, they no longer need a booster (typically around 4 feet 9 inches tall). The lap belt should fit across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt should fit across the shoulders and neck.

All children under 13 should ride in the back seat. It’s the safest way for your child to travel!