Biggest car seat mistakes

A child’s safety seat is only effective if it is used correctly. Here are common mistakes made:

1. Using an older model or secondhand seat without the original directions.

2. Failing to secure the seat adequately in the car. It should not slide more than one inch in any direction.

3. Failing to secure the child in the seat effectively. The harnesses should be tight enough so that no harness fabric can be pinched between your fingers.

4. Moving a child to the next seat too soon. An infant should remain rear-facing until at least 12 months of age and 20 pounds (but this is just a minimum). A booster seat is used for children weighing 40 pounds and up.