The OSDH recommends that parents and caregivers ensure their child’s restraint system meets the following criteria to be in compliance with the new child passenger safety law before it goes into effect November 1, 2015:
- All children under age 4 must be properly secured in a car seat with an internal harness.
- A 5-point harness is the safest restraint system and should be used as long as possible (until the child exceeds the harness’ weight limit).
- Children under age 2 must be properly secured in a rear-facing car seat.
- Rear-facing is the safest way for small children to travel, and they should remain rear-facing until they reach 2 years of age or until they exceed the height or weight limit of the car seat.
- Riding rear-facing with legs bent or against the back of the seat is a safe and comfortable position for children. This position best protects their head, neck and spinal cord in the event of a crash.
- Children ages 4-7 must ride in a child passenger restraint system or booster seat unless they are taller than 4’9”.
Children taller than 4’9” or over age 7 should always be restrained in a seat belt. Riding in the back seat of the vehicle is the safest way for children to travel.
