Ensuring the correct fit
Not all child car seats fit all vehicles.
Check compatibility on the car seat manufacturer’s website.
Isofix
ISOFIX secures the child car seat (or seat base) to two metal anchor points built into the vehicle.
Using ISOFIX makes it easier to fit a child car seat and can reduce the risk of it being fitted incorrectly.
If the vehicle or child car seat are not compatible with ISOFIX it is possible to secure the seat using the seat belt.
There will be a label on the side of the seat showing how it should be fitted but also read the instructions carefully.
If the child seat has a supporting leg, the leg should be adjusted for height so that the seat is braced against the floor. A green indicator may be visible when set correctly.
Using the harness or seat belt
The harness must be correctly adjusted so that the child is secure - the instruction manual should help with this.
It is important to perform regular checks and adjustments of the straps as the child grows.
The harness should fit securely, with just enough gap to fit one or two fingers between the child’s chest and the harness, making sure it also lies flat and is not twisted.
When a seat belt is used to secure the child, there should be a slot or indicator on the seat to show where the belt should go.
The seat belt needs to sit across the child's pelvis, chest and shoulder.
Remove thick jackets so that the harness or seat belt can be tightened properly to protect the child in the event of a collision.
Some children may attempt to remove the harness or seat belt. Although accessories are available to purchase, any device that impacts how the seat belt, harness or buckle works are not recommended.