Four out of every five car seats are used incorrectly.
How safe is your child?
Using the correct child passenger safety seat for your child's age and size, and ensuring that the child is secured in the seat correctly and the seat is secured in the vehicle correctly significantly reduces the risk of serious injury, or death, in the event of an automobile crash. The following table will help you determine if your child is riding in the correct safety seat:
Which Safety Seat is the Right One for My Child?
| My child is . . . | Infant | Toddler or Pre-Schooler | Young Child |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age & Weight | Birth to at least 1y. old & over 20 lbs | Over 1 yr old & over 20 lbs to about 4 yrs old & 40 lbs | To 7 yrs old or about 80 lbs |
| Type of Child Passenger Seat | Infant carrier or convertible safety seat | Convertible or forward-facing car seat with harness | Belt positioning booster seat |
| Seat Position | Rear-facing in back seat | Forward facing in back seat | Forward facing in back seat |
| Note | Harness straps should be at or below shulder level; nation recommendation states that infants should remain rear-facing until the reach the max. weight & height limit indicated on the seat | Harness straps should be at or above shoulders. Be aware of max. weight & height limits; most seats only accommodate children to 40 lbs, though some accommodate children up to 65 lbs. | Use with the vehicle's lap and shoulder belt. NYS law requires children remain in appropriate safety seat until they reach their 7th birthday. However, national recommendation is until a child fits the vehicle seat correctly w/o the assistance of a booster seat |
Note: Using the child passenger safety seat that fits your child and your vehicle and correctly installing the safety seat each time your child travels is essential for ensuring the safety of your child. Always refer to your vehicle and safety seat manuals for instructions of using your safety seat correctly.
Child Passenger Fitting Station*
Make an appointment to have your child's safety seat checked for correct installation and use by a certified safety seat technician. There is no cost for this service and the fitting station is open to any family.
Low-Income Distribution Program*
Through grant funding, safety seat technicians are able to provide low-income families in need of safety seats for their children with brand new, age and size appropriate seats, as well as instruction on their correct usage. To qualify for this program, families must reside in Oneida County , receive WIC or Medicaid, have a valid drivers license and a vehicle.
For more information on either program, or to speak with a nationally certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, contact the Child Care Council at (315) 223-7850 x 225.