Chapter 8: Introduction to Child Restraints National Standardized CPS Certification Training April 2007 – R1010 Chapter 8: Introduction to Child Restraints Chapter 8: Introduction to Child Restraints

Chapter Objectives List the types of child restraints (CRs) Identify how to select appropriate CRs Identify CRs parts and functions Discuss care of CRs Review the importance of not modifying CRs

Before You Can Help, You Need to Know… Child’s weight, height, and age Physical, developmental, and behavioral considerations Type of CRS Type of vehicle Who else will ride in this vehicle? It is important to have all the correct information!

Types of Child Restraints Infant only Convertible (rear facing, forward facing) Forward facing only with harness/Combination FF Booster (belt positioning) Special needs seats Vehicle seat belts Integrated seats

CRs Offer Protection in Five Ways Keep the child in the vehicle Contact the strongest parts of the body Spread the crash forces over a wide area of the body Help the body to slow down Protect the head, neck, and spinal cord

NHTSA’s Four Steps

Buckle for Life Everyone must buckle up, every time, on every trip! Buckling up must become a lifelong habit

Remember Four Important Steps Selection Direction Location Installation

What is the “Best” Child Restraint? The one that fits your child The one that fits your vehicle The one that you will use correctly every time

What is the “Best” Child Restraint? Correct for child’s Age Size Physical development Maturity level Fits in your vehicle Easy to use Comfortable for child Meets FMVSS 213 Instructions available Recall status known

CR Parts & Functions Registration Card

CR Parts and Functions T-Shield Tray Shield

CR Parts and Functions Padding/cover Shell/frame (behind cover) Labels Harness slots Harness straps Retainer clip Buckle

CR Parts and Functions Splitter plate Belt path Recline adjustment

CR Parts & Functions Lockoffs

CR Parts and Functions Locking clip

CR Parts and Functions LATCH Tether Lower anchorage attachments

CR Parts and Functions Detachable base Adjustment foot Level indicator

CR Parts and Functions Carry handle Manufacturer supplied padding and inserts

CR Parts and Functions Foot prop Anti-rebound bar

Modifying Restraints Never change a CR to make it fit Minor modifications can change the way a CR performs in a crash Place rolled receiving blankets/towels along the child’s side for support Place rolled cloth between the crotch strap and crotch area to prevent child slouching

Activity 1: Use the CR Manual Hands On Complete the worksheet

Used Seats: Things to Consider Complete history available All labels and instructions present Meets Federal standards No recalls/recalls fixed (make, model & date) All parts present and in working order Free of cracks, loose rivets, etc No more than 6 years old—may vary by manufacturer Responsibility of caregiver, not technician, to research

After a Crash CRs, seat belts, and air bags are in most cases, made to withstand one crash CR replacement is not always required: Review NHTSA criteria for assessing crash severity and CR replacement Check with CR manufacturer for guidelines to replace the product

NHTSA Criteria: What is a Minor Crash Not Requiring CR Replacement? No cracks or deformities (dented or bulging surfaces) can be seen by looking at the CR Vehicle with CR installed can be driven from the scene Vehicle door nearest CR is undamaged There were no occupant injuries Air bags did not open

CRS Cleaning and Maintenance Always follow the CRS manufacturer’s instructions Use only mild soap and water and rinse with clean water Never use any chemicals such as starch, bleach, or spray-on fabric care/wrinkle guard products Never iron the harness Never lubricate the buckle

Think about how you would answer these questions: National Standardized CPS Certification Training April 2007 – R1010 Think about how you would answer these questions: Can I use my car seat after a crash? I bought this seat at a garage sale. Is it safe to use? I don’t know why my kids have to ride on car seats. Why should they use them? Can I use this head padding? It came with the seat. I have toys on the carrying handle. Are they OK to use? My child has autism. Can I put tape over the retainer clip so he doesn’t get out? Chapter 8: Introduction to Child Restraints

Chapter Review How do child restraints offer protection? What are the types of child restraints? How do you select an appropriate CR for a child? What is the best child restraint? When is it OK to modify a CR?