When you go shopping for your first or next car seat for your children, you may want to follow these steps to protect your precious cargo.
First, check the car seat as thoroughly as you check a new or used car. This step is especially true if you receive or purchase the seat second-hand from a garage sale, flea market, or even as a hand-me down from well-meaning relatives.
Look to make sure the belts and buckles not fraying or cracking. Make sure there are no holes where your baby can entrap their finger or sharp edges within reach. Finally, test the seat in your car for proper fit. Despite the claims, not all car seats are effective in every vehicle.
Finally, all children car seats should be labeled with the manufacturer’s name, model information, and when it was manufactured. If you are buying a new car seat, a registration card should be available. You can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236 or on the Internet at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/childseat.cfm. They can provide you information if there is a recall on your seat. While most recalls involve the seat’s (lack of) crashworthiness, others include parts that can be a choking hazard; flammability, especially the pads and upholstery; and incorrect labeling. The NHTSA also post tips on what seats work best for your child as they grow older as well.