Baby/Child Car Seat Safety

Installation Tips

1. Always read and keep the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure you fully understand how the seat should be fitted. Try a new seat in your car before you buy it, to make sure it is a good fit
2. Check the seat regularly. If the car is involved in an accident there may be hidden damage, so replace the seat
3. Check the condition of the seat belts and harness straps. Ensure they are correctly adjusted and comfortable on the baby/child. Never modify the seat in any way
4. If a child seat is to be used by children from birth up to 9kg (approximately 0 - 9 months) it should be fitted so that the child faces the rear of the car. If the child is over 9kg (9 months and over) the seat should be fitted so that the child faces the front of the car
5. When facing the rear of the car, the seat should always be fitted using a lap and diagonal seat belt. When facing the front, the seat may be fitted using either a lap and diagonal seat belt or a lap only seat belt, or using a separate fitting kit
6. Never fit a baby/child car seat where an air bag is fitted, unless the air bag has been disarmed
7. Seats manufactured to the latest safety standard will be marked ECE R44.03. Look out for this label on any seat you buy

The law regarding child restraints in cars is due to change in September 2006.

Further information is available from http://www.childcarseats.org.uk/law/index.htm

All of our information leaflets are available in a range of formats and languages, including Braille and large print. If this would be useful to you or someone you know, please contact us. Last Modified: 17/03/2006 12:31:10
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