Choosing the Right Car Seat

Choosing the Right Car Seat

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What to consider when purchasing a car seat

The model and date-of-manufacture number

You need this information in order to conduct recall checks. the Office of Defects Investigation (DDI) for the NHTSA makes it possible for you to check for recalls online.

An Instruction Manual

Make sure the child safety seat comes with an instruction manual, and don't throw it away once you have the seat installed. Also check your vehicle owner's manual for additional instructions on how to install child safety seats in your particular vehicle. 

Cracks or Missing Parts

Child safety seats are like any other product in that they can be damaged during shipping or stocking and they can lose parts along the way. Check that neither applies to the seat you want to buy.

The Warranty 

Take note of how long the product is under warranty. This is especially important if you'r purchasing a used child safety seat. Make sure the warranty is still valid. You may also want to call the manufacturer to ask how long they recommend using the child safety seat before it becomes ineffective.

Crash Victim

If the used child safety seat you're considering has been involved in a crash, don't buy it.

A Proper Fit

Regardless of your child's age and weight, if he just doesn't fit into the child safety seat for his age and weight requirements, it's not the right seat for him. Try out several different brands. In addition to the requirements choose what feels right. 

Car Seat Inspection 

local locations

Andrew County Health Department - 106 N. 5th St. Savannah, MO 64485

Missouri Department of Transportation - 3602 N. Belt Highway St. Joseph, MO 64506

Missouri State Highway Patrol - 3525 N. Belt Highway St. Joseph, MO 64506

YMCA - 304 N. 8th St. St. Joseph, MO 64501

St. Joseph Safety and Health Counsel - 118 S. 5th St. St. Joseph, MO 64501

Clark-Sampson Funeral Home - 120 Illinois Ave. St. Joseph, MO 64504

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