Aside from the proper buckling and fastening of infant car seats, another important thing to learn is how to install it. The car seat needs to be set up in its correct position so that we are sure that it can protect our infant. There were actually accidents happened due to the wrong position and installation of infant car seats.
Just because your babies are properly fastened in their car seats, there is no guarantee yet that they are 100% protected. Most parents do not realize that the way they install their baby’s car seat is incorrect. There should be a correct guide on how to set up the infant car seat to avoid wrong installation.
The set up might vary depending on the manufacturer. However there are basic things you should know apart from the written instructions that come with the purchase.
Install Infant Car Seats Properly
Infant Car Seat
- First, you need to place the car seat at the center position of the back seat of your car. The car seat needs to be leveled against the bottom and back seat. See if your car has a level indicator. This shows if the level is an appropriate for a comfortable sitting position.
- There are slots on your car which you will thread your seatbelts through, according to the manufacturers’ guides. Push the infant car seat into the seat of the car using your knee. You need to push it down really hard so you will be able to buckle the car seat into the vehicle. Make it as tight as possible that if you push the car seat, it does not move even 1 inch to the side. That is how secured you want it to be. Older vehicles might need a locking clip to secure that car seat on its place. Specify your type of car with the manufacturer so they can give you the right infant car seat that you need.
- There is a car seat restraint system where you can restraint your baby in. the latest car models already have the 5-point harness for small kids. If your car only has 3-point harness, you might consider getting an upgrade.
- Always check if the car seat is already fastened properly. You need to make sure it won’t be twisted if ever there is a sudden force. The straps above the baby’s shoulders need to fit snugly. Also, don’t make the straps too tight for the baby. Check if you can slit your finger into it while the baby is on the car seat. That way, you are sure that the baby is not too squeezed with the harness.
Added Tips
- You can go to your local police department and have them check the infant car seat installation. They are willing to help parents with these matters to ensure children’s safety on board.
- Do not place the baby in the area where there is air bag. If accidents happen, the air bag will kill the baby.
Always make sure that your infant car seat is installed properly before you begin using it. This will save your baby if ever there is accident on the way.
