Choosing used
Buying a second-hand car seat can save money, but parents must make sure it’s not passed its expiry date, that the padding is not damaged and that the seat has not been in an accident. The instruction manual should come with the seat, so that it can be installed according to directions and the child can be properly secured. Also, check the Transport Canada website (www.tc.gc.ca) which lists recalled models as well as the “useful life” of some of the common brand names.
Before you buy
In addition to ensuring their children travel in a seat that meets Canada’s safety requirements, parents are also responsible for making sure the seat is installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, and that their kids are properly strapped in.
Follow the instructions that come with the car seat and contact the manufacturer if there are any questions about installation. Be sure to send in the warranty card so that you will receive any recalls or messages from the manufacturer.
The best way to make sure a seat is properly installed is to visit a Child Car Seat Clinic in your area. Transport Canada lists agencies across Canada that offer these clinics, or you can contact the Automobile Association in your province.
While times have changed in children’s car safety, what hasn’t changed is parents’ desire to keep their children as safe as possible. Now it’s just a matter of sorting through all the possible car seats and choosing the one that fits your child, your vehicle and your budget.
Buying a second-hand car seat can save money, but parents must make sure it’s not passed its expiry date, that the padding is not damaged and that the seat has not been in an accident. The instruction manual should come with the seat, so that it can be installed according to directions and the child can be properly secured. Also, check the Transport Canada website (www.tc.gc.ca) which lists recalled models as well as the “useful life” of some of the common brand names.
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Before you buy
- Check the Transport Canada website for up-to-date information about car-seat regulations and recall notices.
- Record your child’s height and weight and take the information shopping with you so you purchase a seat that fits him/her.
- Check to make sure that the car seat you choose is compatible with the vehicle it will be travelling in.
- If you’re hoping to travel outside of Canada to pick up a low-cost car seat, you may not be getting a bargain. It’s illegal to use car seats that fail to meet Transport Canada’s standards. The same applies to seats purchased online and shipped from out of the country. Seats that don’t meet Canadian standards may be confiscated, and if there is an accident you may not be covered by your insurance.
In addition to ensuring their children travel in a seat that meets Canada’s safety requirements, parents are also responsible for making sure the seat is installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, and that their kids are properly strapped in.
Follow the instructions that come with the car seat and contact the manufacturer if there are any questions about installation. Be sure to send in the warranty card so that you will receive any recalls or messages from the manufacturer.
The best way to make sure a seat is properly installed is to visit a Child Car Seat Clinic in your area. Transport Canada lists agencies across Canada that offer these clinics, or you can contact the Automobile Association in your province.
While times have changed in children’s car safety, what hasn’t changed is parents’ desire to keep their children as safe as possible. Now it’s just a matter of sorting through all the possible car seats and choosing the one that fits your child, your vehicle and your budget.