|
 |
Traffic Services
Child Seat Safety
Purchasing or Borrowing a Used Infant Seat
***NEVER PLACE AN INFANT SEAT OR CHILDREN UNDER 12 IN FRONT OF AN ACTIVE AIRBAG-DOING SO MAY RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY TO YOUR CHILD***
When you are about to have a new baby family and friends often offer to loan or give you equipment that they no longer need. There is nothing wrong with accepting such a generous offer but make sure you consider the following first.
- Transport Canada advises that a child seat can be used for up to ten years. Child seats are subjected to extremes in temperature (hot/cold) inside a motor vehicle and the plastic may become fatigued over time. Do not use a seat you cannot date.
- Many manufacturers of car seats place an expiry date on the seat. If the expiry date has past do not use the seat.
- Child seats are a one impact only device. If the seat has been in a vehicle that was involved in a collision it should not be used. You need to know whether or not the seat you are about to purchase/use has ever been involved in a collision or dropped from a height of three feet or greater. Never purchase or use a seat with an unknown history.
- Does the seat have a CMVSS label (Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) showing it has met Canadian Standards? Car seats sold in the United States may not meet the Canadian Standard please consult with the manufacturer to make sure it meets Canadian Standards.
- Is there a copy of the car seat’s instruction booklet?
- Has there been a recall by Transport Canada or the seat manufacturer of this particular seat? Check first before using by contacting the manufacturer or checking Transport Canada website at www.tc.gc.ca
- If there is ant damage to the seat, frame, seat pad or harness buckle, do not use.
|
