| Parents: Chances are, you might not have your child’s car seat installed correctly. According to data from the National Digital Car Seat Check Form, 74% of the almost 60,000 car seats that child passenger safety technicians (CPSTs) checked in 2025 were not being used as intended by the manufacturer. Car accidents are a leading cause of death among U.S. children, according to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report. Correctly used car and booster seats significantly reduce this risk. Learn what a secure car seat base and a tightly fastened tether look like with Life Kit’s visual guide. 🚗 The top mistake parents make with car seats has to do with the seat belt. The car seat shouldn't move more than one inch side to side or front to back when you secure it in a fastened seat base. Firmly shake it to confirm. 🚗 The harness height depends on whether your child's car seat faces forward or rearward. Place the harness at a height that controls the child's movement and reduces the risk of injury. For example, in a forward-facing seat, set it at or slightly above the shoulder. 🚗 The long straps that hang off your child’s car seat are not optional. Attach these critical tethers to your vehicle's back seat anchor point, which is located on the rear shelf, seat back, ceiling or floor. |
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