These inspections help reveal any possible defects in the child seat, point out installation errors, and teach parents how to put in these child seats properly.

These child seat inspections are provided
as a public service by:

Union County Police Department,
Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders,
& New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety

Call (908) 789-6830
FOR FREE SAFETY SEAT INSPECTIONS

Motor vehicle accidents are the number one cause of death of children over the age of six months in the United States. The proper use of child safety seats is one of the simplest and most effective methods available for protecting the lives of our young children in the event of a motor vehicle accident.

Please make sure that children are properly protected while traveling in a motor vehicle. The correct use of child safety seats will offer the best protection possible for your child. So please be aware of the facts listed on this web page regarding the proper use of child safety seats, and drive sober, safe and buckled.

There are over forty different types of car seats on the market today. Each one must meet federal standards and all provide good protection for your child when used correctly. The "right" seat for you is largely a matter of personal choice. Choose a seat you feel comfortable installing, can clearly understand the instructions, and feel you will use correctly on every trip. Correct use is easy if you follow four simple steps:

1. Thoroughly read the manufacturer's instructions for the car seat AND the vehicle as pertains to installation in that particular seating position.

2. Select the correct seat for your child and utilize seat correctly

• Newborn – infant carrier or (rear-facing) convertible – up to 2 years and 30 lbs.

• Toddler - convertible seat (forward-facing) or forward-facing only seat - over 2 years and 30 lbs./use to maximum height/weight limit of seat

• Children - booster seat (highback, backless or integrated) - to 8 years old or 80 lbs., per NJ law.

3. Properly secure child in the restraint according to the manufacturer’s instructions

• Harness straps should be “snug” (no slack in harness) and retainer clip should be positioned at armpit level

• Harness should be routed correctly according to manufacturer’s instructions

4. Secure the child safety seat with a safety belt or LATCH system (see vehicle and child seat instructions for specific instructions)

• Anchoring the seat properly with the seat belt or LATCH system is critical.  A seat that is not buckled securely to the car can tip over, slide sideways, or, in a crash, be ejected from the car completely. Check your instructions to find out how to route the seat belt properly and fasten it tightly.

CARS WITH FRONT PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAGS

If your car has a FRONT passenger-side air bag and your baby is under 20 pounds:

1. NEVER put your baby in the front seat. The back of the rear-facing safety seat is located very close to the dashboard, where the airbag is housed. If the air bag inflates, it may hit the back of the car seat very hard, and the impact could seriously injure your baby.

2. ALWAYS put your baby in the back seat, still facing the rear. Read your vehicle owner's manual for instructions about children and air bags.