The birth of a child brings with it many challenges, one of which is making sure that the child is always safe. The correct installation of a car seat is an aspect that is often underestimated and that endangers the life of the newborn. By following the steps described in this article, you can ensure your child travels and transport by car in complete safety.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Rear-facing Car Seat
Step 1. Place the seat on the rear seat
Place the seat so that it faces the rear window. The rear seat of the car is always the safest place to leave a child, especially for cars with an airbag device. In case you have to put it in the front seat, be sure to deactivate the airbags (refer to the car's instructions on how to proceed).
Step 2. Attach and tighten the seat belt firmly at the base of the seat
To make the seat belt as tight as possible, check the instruction manual or the label on the seat belt. New car models may have the ISOFIX coupling system; check with the car's instruction manual to understand how to do it. WARNING: Do not use the seat belt at the same time as the ISOFIX system. The seat is tight enough when it does not move when pulled from side to side.
Step 3. Make sure the seat is reclined sufficiently so that the baby's head does not fall forward
Never tilt the seat back more than 45 °. Look at the references on the seat or on its base. If necessary, and only if the instruction manual allows it, place a rolled towel under the base.
Step 4. Dress the child in tight clothing
This will prevent the shoulder straps from causing irritation. Do not make him wear thick clothes, as it may be difficult to pull the straps correctly.
Step 5. Adjusting the shoulder straps
Place them in the buttonholes near or just below the child's shoulders and put the center strap at armpit height.
Step 6. Slip the blanket along the baby's hips
A little padding helps him feel comfortable. Do not put inserts, blankets or towels under or behind the child's body.
Step 7. Fold a washcloth and place it between the baby and the straps
Step 8. Attach straps and shoulder straps
Stretch the harness to make it safer.
Step 9. Cover the baby with a blanket
In the cold season it is important to keep the baby warm. Make sure the blanket fits snugly under the baby and does not cover their face or neck.
Method 2 of 2: Forward facing car seat
Step 1. Read the instruction manual
Each car seat has its own harness model, which is why it is always best to refer to the instruction manual to understand how to do all the installations and adjustments.
Step 2. Place the seat in the back seat of the car
The base should be flat on the seat, while the seat back should be straight and rested on the seat back. If necessary, remove the headrest.
Step 3. Look for the slots on the seat for the seat belt
They should be easily identifiable by stickers (usually placed behind the seat).
Step 4. Attach the seat hooks to the car seat mounts
If your car does not have such attachments, try calling the manufacturer to find out if they can be installed - they can exponentially increase the safety level of your car.
Step 5. Make sure the harness is comfortable and safe
You could ask a technician, who specializes in installing car seats, to verify their correct installation.
Advice
- When buying a car seat, always fill out the required online registration. In this way you allow the manufacturer to contact you in case of manufacturing defects, to receive a possible refund, a replacement or for the repair of the seat.
- Considering the various regulatory updates, some types of used car seats may not be suitable for this type of transport. Check before buying.
- In many countries, it is possible to have the installation of the seat checked by police personnel. In other countries you can ask the authorities of the motorization (or their equivalent), to do this verification. Road accidents can happen at any time, ensure your child maximum safety.
- Singing or playing with your child will help him calm down.
- Always place the seat in the rear seat of the car and in the rear facing direction (for those who require it), unless there are alternatives. If this is not possible, make sure the airbag is off (refer to the car manual on how to proceed). The power used by the airbag is such that it could kill your child, even for a simple rear-end collision. Don't take this risk.
- Use the infant seat positioned towards the rear of the machine for as long as possible, that is: use it until the baby's head is less than 2-3 cm from the top or until its weight reaches the indicated limits. When your child has gone beyond these limits, use a forward facing seat with five harness straps.
- Use the angle indicator on the seat to ensure the correct inclination.
Warnings
- Never remove the child from the seat while the car is in motion.
- Do not use the seat belts with the ISOFIX fastening system at the same time.
- Do not dress the child with too many layers, as it may be difficult, if not impossible, to close the harness hooks.
