We all know that, to go out for a walk with children, it is necessary that the car seat has a child restraint system (SRI) that adjusts to the characteristics of the little ones. Therefore, as the child grows, and to provide him with the protection and security that he requires at all times, the chair will have to be changed. Here are some guidelines to help you know when to change it.
1. Expiration date
Although unknown to many parents, car seats have an expiration date, which is based on the type of child restraint. Its expiration date can be recognized in relation to the moment it was manufactured, since it is recorded on a plastic label attached to the seat or, also, written on the back of it. Although the number of useful years of the chair depends on the manufacturer, in general, they have a life time of approximately 4 to 6 years.
2. After an accident
It is always recommended to change the seat when the car has suffered a collision or accident, because, when suffering an impact, the child restraint system can be damaged or some part of the interior can break, something that cannot be perceived with the naked eye. Therefore, for the safety of the child, it is important to change the seat in these types of situations.
3. When the child grows and varies in weight and height
When you go out for a walk with the little one, the child restraint system of the chair must be in accordance with the regulations. This means that it has to be adjusted to the demands, both of height and weight, of the child. To make this easier, car seats are classified according to these parameters. All manufacturers already state the characteristics of the chair and what type of child can use them to achieve optimal protection.
Now that you know in which situations you should change the car seat, what you need to know are a couple of fundamental tips when choosing a good seat for your child.
What to take into account when buying the car seat
- Avoid buying used chairs. Second-hand chairs are always going to have some wear due to the constant use of the child restraint system, so acquiring a used chair can be a risk for the child due to ignorance of the use that was given previously.
- Place it correctly in the car. Part of a successful child restraint function is the proper placement of the seat in the car. For this, it is advisable that when buying the chair take into account the car and how it will be placed in it. When placing the chair on the seat, it is advisable to read the instruction manual, since the installation of the chair may vary depending on the brand, although, yes, it must always be fixed on the seat, without folds or gaps . In addition, it should be noted that, apart from good positioning, the direction in which the chair is placed is also important; that is, whether or not it is placed in reverse gear (ACM).
Remember that, taking care of the car seat, what you are doing is also taking care of your child. And, a good chair, the correct and appropriate chair for him, will offer him benefits and reduce negative factors such as poor posture or future back problems.
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