Tag Archives: car seat

Child Passenger Safety

NHTSA Car Seat Guidelines

child safety seat

A few weeks ago, NHTSA released updated safety recommendations for traveling with children in cars.  Here are the essentials:

  • Birth – 12 Months: always use a rear-facing car seat in the back seat
  • 1 – 3 Years: Once the child has reached the upper limit for height or weight for the rear-facing seat, graduate him/her to a forward-facing seat with a full harness.
  • 4 – 7 Years: Once your child has reached the upper limit for height or weight for the forward-facing seat, graduate him/her to a booster seat – but keep your child in the back seat.
  • 8 – 12 Years: Keep your child in a booster seat until he/she is big enough to fit in a seat belt properly.

Click here to download a printable flyer for easy reference.

Proper Seat Belt Fit

For a safety belt to fit properly, the lap belt must lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the stomach.  The shoulder belt should lie snugly across the shoulder and chest and not cross the neck or face.  Remember, your child should still ride in the back seat because it’s safer there.

Need Help Mounting Your Car Seat Properly?

SafeKids routinely sets up free car seat inspection stations around the area, where a professional will help you install your seat properly, and can even help you determine whether a given seat is appropriate for your child.  Visit www.safekids.org to see a list of upcoming events for PA.