As colder weather sets in across Alberta, Airdrie drivers are reminded to ensure their young passengers are safely secured in appropriate car or booster seats. With November’s icy roads and potentially hazardous driving conditions, the Alberta RCMP emphasizes the importance of using the right child safety equipment for each growth stage.
Child car seat guidelines
To help parents understand when to transition their child to a new seat, here are Alberta’s current recommendations:
- Birth to two years (up to 22 lbs / 10 kg): Infants should be placed in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least two years old or until they reach the maximum height and weight limits specified by the seat’s manufacturer.
- Two to six Years (22-40 lbs / 10-18 kg): Once children outgrow their rear-facing seats and weigh at least 22 lbs, they can be secured in a forward-facing car seat.
- Six years and older (over 40 lbs / 18 kg): A booster seat is recommended for children who have outgrown forward-facing seats. The booster should elevate the child to ensure they can sit comfortably with their back against the vehicle seat, knees bent naturally, and the seat belt fits properly across their chest and lap. A high-back booster is advised for added head and neck support.
Key Safety Tips for Car and Booster Seats
- Always in the rear seat: For maximum safety, all child car and booster seats should be installed in the back seat.
- Check for certification: Ensure the seat has a Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) sticker, which certifies it meets national safety standards.
- Avoid used seats: Buying secondhand car seats is discouraged, as they may be damaged, recalled, expired, or not up to current safety standards.
- Use the inch test: After installation, move the seat side-to-side and front-to-back at the base. If it moves more than an inch, it may not be secured tightly enough.
"As a driver, it’s your responsibility to ensure all passengers are properly secured," said Sgt. Turnbull with Alberta RCMP Traffic. “It’s crucial that all children are in the right seat for their size and installed correctly. This can make a huge difference in reducing the risk of injury during travel."
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