Instructions for the Correct Placement of a Graco Car Seat
In the United States, thousands of babies and kids are needlessly injured or killed in traffic accidents when strapped into an improperly secured car seat. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, car accidents are the leading cause of death in children younger than 14. For decades, Graco Children's Products Inc. has manufactured specialized car seats for infants and children, with instructions specific to each model. So, before buckling a child into a car seat, make sure the seat itself is correctly placed and secured in the vehicle.
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Things You'll Need
- Graco car seat, appropriate to age and weight of child
- Car seat and vehicle manuals
Instructions
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Check the owner's manual and the vehicle's rear seat for the possible locations of metal anchors permanently attached to the vehicle. All passenger vehicles manufactured since 1999 should be equipped with a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, or LATCH, system. Older vehicles will not be so equipped, so vehicle seat belts will be used to secure the car seat.
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Set the car seat in the rear seat according to the instructions provided by Graco. Infant and toddler seats should face the rear of the vehicle, and booster seats for older children should face front. Check suggested car seat positions according to the child's weight and age.
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Secure the car seat to the LATCH tethers or via the vehicle's seat belts according to instructions in the manuals for both the car seat and the vehicle.
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Check all the connections to make sure they're locked in the proper position and vigorously shake the car seat to check for any give. Make adjustments as necessary until the car seat is firmly secured. Check the harness system and refer to the Graco instructions for correct strap placement before placing the child in the car seat.
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Tips & Warnings
Try out the car seat in your vehicle before purchasing it, if possible, and practice installing it.
Do not put infants in car seats designed for older or heavier children; the extra space within the seat will not hold the baby securely.
Do not overtighten car seat straps holding an infant in a car seat; allow for some movement within the seat.
References
Resources
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