Use child seats properly

0 Comments | Deseret News (Salt Lake City), Jan 14, 2007

Consumer Reports recently released a scathing report about rear- facing child safety seats failing laboratory tests, implying that it may be unsafe to use certain seats.

While some of the claims may bring about additional research, the users of child safety seats in our state must remain vigilant in the proper use of child safety seats.

Even a questionable seat, not perfectly installed, offers greater protection to a child than one left unrestrained or a child held on an adult's lap. Research has proven time and again that rear-facing seats are highly effective in reducing the likelihood of death by more than 70 percent.

More frightening than the Consumer findings is the number of older children traveling unrestrained or without the use of belt- positioning booster seats.

I encourage all parents to "stay the course." Read your child safety seat instructions, the vehicle owner's manual, call a safety seat technician for free assistance (801-662- CARS), and use a child safety seat on every trip.

Janet Brooks

Child advocacy manager

Safe Kids Utah

Primary Children's Medical Center

Salt Lake City