4 Safety Checkpoints for Installing Your Baby’s Car Seat

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The installation of a car seat is often a tricky proposition for most parents. However difficult (and frazzling!) it may seem to install a baby carseat, it is important to understand that the proper installation of a one can mean the difference between life and death.

Unfortunately, the reality is that most car seats are not installed properly, thereby putting our babies at risk for serious injury or even death. It is therefore of the utmost importance to abide by the following four safety checkpoints when installing your baby’s carseat.

1. Always, always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations – There is no better place to learn about the safety of your car seat installation than the manufacturer’s instructions. Read and re-read the instruction manual and install the car seat according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most of the car seat manuals come with easy-to-follow instructions and pictures to help guide you through the installation. Indeed, this is not the time to guess or assume how to do something! In addition to car seat instructions, pay close attention to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding age and weight requirements, as this can play a big part in how and where the seat is installed.

2. Use the LATCH system, if possible – Many newer car models come equipped with a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system, which is essentially a factory-installed latch than ensures a secure fit for a car seat. The LATCH system eliminates the need to use a seat belt, thereby providing a foolproof method of installation. However, it is still important to carefully read the instructions for installation when installing a LATCH system!

3. Remember: the best place for a baby is in the back seat of the car – Regardless of the carseat manufacturer, type of car you have, or how old your baby is, the best possible place for your baby is in the backseat: preferably in the middle seat. The front seat is simply too dangerous for an infant, especially if the car’s seat does not have an automatic air bag switch. Remember: babies and young children can be killed by airbags!

4. Ask your local fire or police department if they offer car seat inspection services – If you have any doubt about your car seat installation, or if you simply want to double check your work, contact your local fire or police department and ask if they have a car inspection service. Most of the time local fire and police departments will offer this service for free, so take advantage of it to ensure that your baby is safe and secure in the car at all times.

Aside from making sure that your baby’s car seat is properly installed, it is best to contact your auto insurance company at least once a year to review your auto insurance policy. An annual review of your auto insurance policy will ensure that your insurance needs are met and that you, your family and your passengers are fully protected in case of an accident. You may also want to keep in contact with other car insurance companies to see if a better policy is available.

Annie Wallace is a new mom and blogger. You can find her blogging at Viral Mom.

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