CAR SEAT SAFETY

Car crashes are the leading cause of death among children ages 14 and under. Children need to be properly restrained in car seats or booster seats. In Utah County, 88% of car seats are installed incorrectly.

Top 10 Car Seat Tips

1. Car seat should not move more than 1 inch side to side or toward the front of the car. 
2. No more than 1 finger width should fit between the child's harness and their collarbone.
3. Infant seats should recline to a 45-degree angle. A rolled up towel in the crack of the vehicle seat will help with proper recline.
4. Position harness retainer clip at armpit level of the child.
5. Remove all items not purchased as part of the car seat (i.e. bulky coats, head positioners).
6. Secure car seat in locked mode- see vehicle owners manual. 
7. Secure seat belt in locked mode- see vehicle owners manual.
8. Harness straps on the car seat should be positioned at or below child's shoulders when rear facing and at or above child's shoulders when forward facing.
9. Keep your child rear facing until 1 year AND 20 pounds in an infant seat OR 30 pounds in a convertible.
10. Children between 40-80 pounds and under 4'9'' should remain in a booster seat.

For more information see http://www.utahcountyonline.org/Dept/HealthWIC2/site/infants/safety/carseat.html

For information about free car seat classes and car seat checks in Utah County see http://www.utahcountyonline.org/Dept2/Health/Health%20Promotion/Injury/carseat.html