Wondering how to install your car seat correctly? You are not alone
It’s estimated that four out of five car seats aren’t installed correctly. That’s why getting your car seat checked by a certified technician is so important.
Champaign-Urbana Public Health District Child Passenger Safety Program offers a free car safety seat check on the second Monday of every month at the Champaign Urbana Public Health District, 201 W. Kenyon Road.
The inspections are by appointment only between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Because of the high demand for car seat inspections, you may have to wait three to six weeks for an appointment.
Anyone interested in making an appointment should call (217) 353-4932 for a car seat appointment.
Some helpful information as you plan for your car seat inspection
Each appointment will last approximately 15 minutes. Technicians will go through a checklist covering the following points.
Information below is directly from the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District website:
- Right Seat. This is an easy one. Check the label on your car seat to make sure it’s appropriate for your child’s age, weight and height. Like milk, your car seat has an expiration date. Just double check the label on your car seat to make sure it is still safe.
- Right Place. Kids are VIPs, just ask them. We know all VIPs ride in the back seat, so keep all children in the back seat until they are 13.
- Right Direction. You want to keep your child in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible, usually until around age 2. When he or she outgrows the seat, move your child to a forward-facing car seat. Make sure to attach the top tether after you tighten and lock the seat belt or lower anchors. Continue to use a booster seat until your child properly fits in the seat belt, usually when they are between the ages of 8 and 12.
- Inch Test. Once your car seat is installed, give it a good shake at the base. Can you move it more than an inch side to side or front to back? A properly installed seat will not move more than an inch.
- Pinch Test. Make sure the harness is tightly buckled and coming from the correct slots (check car seat manual). Now, with the chest clip placed at armpit level, pinch the strap at your child’s shoulder. If you are unable to pinch any excess webbing, you’re good to go.
Cost: FREE. Children do not have to be present, but it is helpful if they are there.
Throughout the year, we may find out about other car seat safety inspection events. Keep an eye on the chambanamoms.com event calendar for such events.