Lyons Fire Protection District has certified car seat technicians trained to help you safely install your new car seat.
Proper use of car safety seats helps protect children while in a vehicle. When used correctly, car seats can reduce the risk of death in a collision by as much as 71% (source: safekids.org). There are a lot of different options on the market and it can get overwhelming, but the good news is that several resources are available to help parents while their child is in a car seat.
Choosing the Right Car Seat
The type of seat your child needs depends on several things, including the child’s age, size and developmental needs. The three different styles of car seats are rear-facing, forward-facing and booster seats. Before committing to a certain car seat, be sure to check that the seat you are purchasing is compatible with your vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides guidance to help parents select the right seat for their child. Parents can also consult any car seat manufacturer’s manual for more information.
After you receive your car seat, register it to stay updated with any recalls or safety updates. Car seats do expire. You can find the seat’s expiration date located on its manufacturer label or the back of the seat. Look for something that says, “Do NOT use this car seat after *date* or *after being involved in a motor vehicle accident*.” If you still can’t find the expiration date, call the manufacturer to find out.
Here are some basic tips on keeping kids safe while riding in a vehicle.