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Does Your Older Child Require A Car Seat?

Now that your child is a preschooler weighing above 40 lbs, it is about time that you check if the car seat that you are using is safe enough. Chances are that your child’s weight has crossed the maximum specifications of the car seat. If your child’s head has become taller than the seat then you also need to consider changing the car seat for a seat that will match the requirements of your child’s age, weight and height.

Using a car seat for the safety of your children is mandatory in all states. A car seat is necessary for your child until the age that the child can use a booster seat. It is only after the age of 13 that your child is able to use regular seat belts without any support.

When buying a new car seat for your child, ensure that the model has not been recalled. It is very easy to do that. Just visit the manufacturer’s website and make sure that the model is not listed in the list of recalled models. Also, be very careful when buying a second hand car seat. Under no circumstances buy a second hand car seat older than 5 years, because you may not be able to get spares for the seat. So, when in doubt, buy a new car seat.

Before attempting to install the seat, read the installation manual carefully. Reading the manual helps you to understand the installation procedure. There are a number of videos that can help you with the installation procedure.

Children within the age group of 8 to 12 may be able to use a booster seat. You may not have to buy a new car seat for them. However it is recommended that you use a car seat for them as long as their body weight and height is within the car seat’s specifications. In order to delay moving them to a booster seat, buy a car seat that has a high upper limit on permissible body weight and height.

Take a look at the Britax range of car seats. With the model Britax Regent you cannot go wrong as it has a very high specification in terms of weight and height.

Child safety is an issue that is of utmost importance to parents. Parents will not mind spending a little extra on a car seat that promises them greater safety and reliability.


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