"In this episode: How to install a REAR-facing seat for INFANTS."
That's usually for babies up to nine kilograms, or 20 pounds.
Some seats can handle heavier children but CHECK the seat's manual to be sure. And watch the other videos in this series.
Here's the first step.
Check your car's seat belt to see how it LOCKS.
You need to pull the seatbelt all the way out and listen for a clicking sound to see if it locks here in the retractor.
If it doesn't lock in the retractor, check if it locks here on the latch plate by a cinching mechanism or a switch.
If it doesn't lock, you will need a locking clip. Installed like this, one-half inch from the latchplate so you can see two "C" shapes.
Vehicles made in and after 2002 will have handy Universal Anchorage System (or UAS) points between the vehicle seat back and the lower seat cushion, like these. Check your vehicle owner's manual to see if you have this feature.
Child car seats come with a UAS belt. Simply thread the belt through the correct belt path (for rear-facing it usually goes through where the baby sits), and connect it to the UAS anchorage points in your vehicle. Always check your vehicle owner's manual and car seat instructions for correct installation
Use the seat belt or the UAS system, not both.
Let's continue with our seat belt installation.
Install the base at a 45 degree angle. Most rear-facing seats have an adjustable foot to get this angle.
Some seats have an indicator to help you. If your baby's head is flopping forward or your baby is lying down too much, you may need to adjust the angle to ensure it's at 45 degrees.
If necessary, use a foam bar or a tightly rolled towel to make it 45 degrees.
Now you need a friend, to put weight in the child car seat so you can tighten the seatbelt.
Thread it through, and make sure the seat can't move more than two and a half centimeters, or one inch where the seatbelt or UAS goes through the belt path.
Now it's time to secure your child.
Don't use overly bulky clothing when you fasten the buckles here….and here.
The chest clip must be at armpit level. Snug, so you can only get one finger between the harness and collar bone.
Also, the harness straps coming through the seat must be AT or below the shoulders.
Now you're ready to place your child in the car. For an infant only car seat, make sure the carrier latches into the base---every time!
Check your car seat manual for the placement of the handle.
Before you drive away, here are some general tips.
Ensure all straps lie flat without twisting.
Seats manufactured for sale in Canada must have a Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard label or statement of compliance on the seat itself. Look for the round sticker with the maple leaf on it.
Check for an expiry date, and don't use a seat more than 10 years old.
Use extra caution when buying a pre-owned seat. Replace the car seat if it's been in a collision.
Most importantly, this series is a visual guide, but remember, every car and every seat is different. Follow the instruction manuals closely.
Thanks for watching