Buying a child car seat
Research has shown that up to 60% of child restraints are incorrectly fitted.
- When buying a child restraint it is important to take the child's mass into consideration, not just their age. There are 3 main types of child car seats:
- For newborns and babies under 18kg , a seat such as the ASTI SAFETY ZONE should be used. The safest way for a child of this age to travel is in a rear facing restraint in the back seat.
- For babies from 18 to 22kg , a restraint such as the ASTI WINNER should be used. It is safe for children to now travel in forward facing restraints but still in the back seat.
- Older children who have outgrown ordinary restraints should use a BOOSTER seat. The booster must be used along with a SAFETYTOT to place the seat belt in the correct position, still in the back seat.
Research has shown that up to 60% of child restraints are incorrectly fitted.
- Read and follow the instructions when fitting your child restraint – mistakes, unfortunately can't always be corrected later.
- If there is any part of the instructions that you do not understand, find someone who does either at the store where you purchased the seat or the manufacturer.
- Ensure that the restraint is secure and fitted correctly.
- It is of the utmost importance that the seat belt is adjusted to suit the size of the child.
- The belt strap must be flat and fit across the shoulder – never across the face or neck.
