Booster Seat Safety - What Every Parent Needs to Know

When kids outgrow toddler car seats they are ready for the last "kid" seat before they start riding like the rest of us. This last phase is a booster seat for kids that are at least four years old and 40 pounds. The purpose of this article is to explain the basics of booster seat safety.

The whole idea of a booster seat is to boost or elevate your child so that they can safely use the vehicles seat belts. Booster seats do not come with their own restraining harness like child car seats do. Booster seats come in two basic designs.

Britax Car Seat

Some booster seats come with a back attached and these should be used if you back seat does not have head rests. The seat incorporates the lab and shoulder belt in your vehicle. If you plan on using the center seat, and it only has a lap belt, consider getting a safety vest which provides it's own harness.

Seats with backs are often times more comfortable for smaller children They can also come with some handy options like arm rests that have built in cup holders and snack trays. Some even come with night lights if you do a lot of driving at night.

The other booster resembles a booster seat you might find in a restaurant. It has no back and again relies on the vehicles lap and shoulder belt. These are appropriate if your back seat has a head rest.

In both cases, the key to safety and effectiveness is the placement and use of the seat belt. Make sure the seat is installed per the instructions of the manufacturer. Never allow the shoulder belt to be behind the child's back or under his or her arm. In the event of an accident, this belt placement can cause serious injury including death.

In most states, it is illegal for a child to ride in a booster seat in the front seat. If you decide to do this, and it's legal in your state, make sure the passenger side airbag is deactivated. If the airbag inflates it can do serious injury to the child.

Booster seats are made by a number of manufacturers and pricing can be all over the place. It's best to actually see the seat in person to get an idea of the sturdiness and safety of the unit. Once you've made your decision on a brand and style, you can either buy it at the store or research the internet for a better price. In either case make sure you are aware of the return policy so you are not stuck with something that just doesn't work for you.

Booster Seat Safety - What Every Parent Needs to Know

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