Car seats PLEASE HELP ME?

Question

hi there. i have been getting many mixed messages when it comes to installing a carseat for my newborn.

I have heard form a few people that you do NOT have to have it professionally installed, and many MANY others have insisted that it is infact the law to have a professional install it for you.

could someone PLEASE give me some ACCURATE information.

oh, and ps..

I live in Ontario Canada ( just incase that was going to come into question).

Answer 1

This site is a great resource, and includes Canadian car seat techs and posters:

http://www.car-seat.org

You are not required by law to get a car seat looked at by a professional, but it is a very good idea. Over 80% of car seats are installed or used incorrectly and will not protect the kids in them. And the professional should NOT just install it for you, they should show you how to do it yourself so you will know how when they're not there. So not required, but good idea.

Answer 2

This site is very helpful...........

http://www.carseatdata.org/

Answer 3

If you are unsure of yourself, then ABSOLUTELY have it professionally installed. They will show you step by step how to install the car seat. I thought I was installing ours correctly until I went to a car seat check program, boy did I miss the boat!

Answer 4

I dont think you would need it professionally installed... Just do it yourself:P

Answer 5

In the U.S., over half of all infant carseats in use are installed wrong and may not adequately protect.  Unless Canadians are much better at self-installing, get it done right.  The baby's life is enough of a reason, whether or not the law requires it.

Answer 6

A good tech will TEACH you how to install the seat, not install it for you or inspect it.  It is scary how many seats are not installed properly.  I know ours wasn't until I took it to a great tech and she taught me lots of tricks to get it installed solidly and securely.

Try car-seat.org.  There is a Canadian and international board on there where great techs can help direct you to a tech in your area.