Child seat safety change

New rule to take effect

If you thought the rules surrounding your child's car safety seat were confusing before, add another element to the mix.

According to Parents Magazine, a new rule is scheduled to take effect in the last week of February.

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It deals with the so-called LATCH anchoring system. LATCH stand for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. The new rule concerns older children who weigh more. When the combined weight of the child and the car seat reach 65 pounds, there are concerns the anchors won't be strong enough to work properly. The new 65-pound limit only applies to the lower anchors, parents should continue to use the top tethers at all times regardless of your child's size.

If your child and the seat weight a combined 65 pounds or more, you should be sure to secure the car seat with the seat belts, instead of the anchors.

Many publications have previewed the change. Advocates point out that many parents have trouble installing safety seats properly, and now there's this new rule.

To review car seat safety and find an inspection site near you - follow this link -- seatcheck.org -- or call 1-866-SEAT-CHECK.


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