Parenting Supports

Car Seat Support

Contact Us

Call Health Connections 905-546-3550 to speak to a Public Health Nurse
Email [email protected]

@HealthyFamiliesHamilton

Facebook.com/HealthyFamiliesHamilton

Woman smiling at a baby as she tightens the straps on a baby car seat in the back of a car

Learn how to choose the right car seat or booster seat for your child to keep them safe.

Car Seats - parachute.ca

Using the right car seat or booster seat helps keep your child safe and can prevent serious injuries. The best car seat is one that:

Fits your child
Fits your budget
Can be safely installed in your vehicle

Before installing a new car seat or booster seat, carefully read both the car seat manual and your vehicle’s owner manual. If you’re having trouble installing your car seat or booster seat, contact the manufacturer for free help. Many companies offer free videos, live chat, or phone support for your specific model.

Car Seat Safety

Watch this short video from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation for tips on choosing, installing, and checking that a child car seat meets Canadian safety standards.

Before Buying or Using a Car Seat

Car Seat Stages

Helpful Vehicle Safety Tips

Make sure your car seat or booster seat is safe and legal to use. Check the following before you buy or install one:

Look for the Canadian Motor Vehicle Standards Sticker (CMVSS). This sticker is proof that the car seat has been tested and passed Canadian safety standards. Seats without this sticker are not legal for sale or use in Canada.
Read the car seat manual and vehicle manual carefully. Make sure your car seat can be safely and correctly installed in your vehicle. Not all car seats will fit every vehicle.
Check for manufacturer labels. Every car seat should have labels with the date of manufacture, model name, and model number.

Check the expiry date. All car seats and booster seats have expiry date labels. Do not use a seat past its expiry date.
Check the height and weight limits. Make sure your child meets the seat’s height and weight limits for safe use.
Check for safety recalls. Visit the Transport Canada website for recall information. You can also register your car seat on the manufacturer’s website to get recall updates directly.
Look for any damage or missing parts. Do not use a seat that has damage, missing parts, worn or missing labels.
Call the car seat manufacturer and your insurance company if you have been in an accident. Even if the accident may seem minor or the seat doesn’t look damaged, the accident could affect the safety of your child’s seat.
Learn the history of a used or second-hand car seat. If you are thinking about using a used or second-hand car seat, learn more at Second hand/used car seats – Parachute.

Choose the right car seat for your child’s age, size, and stage of development. The four stages of child car seat use are:

Rear-facing
Forward-facing
Booster seat
Seat belt

In Ontario, the law requires that:

Children under the age of 8 must be in the correct child car seat or booster
Children under the age of 16 must wear a seat belt

Before installing a car seat or booster seat, always read both the car seat manual and the vehicle's owner manual. When your child is ready to move your child to the next car seat stage, make sure they meet all the minimum requirements for:

Height
Weight
Age
Development

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and learn more at choosing the right car seat – Parachute.

Car Seat Safety Tips

Check the temperature of the seat and buckles. In warm weather, the fabric or buckles can get hot and hurt your child. Let the seat cool down before putting your child in.
Avoid bulky clothing. Puffy jackets or snowsuits can stop the harness from fitting closely. Dress your child in thin, warm layers (like fleece) or cover them with a blanket after buckling.
Avoid using extra accessories. Only use parts that came with your car seat. Extra items have not been crash tested and can make your seat less safe. Check your manual or contact the manufacturer if you have questions.
Car seats are only for travel. Make sure to take your child out of the car seat once you reach your destination, even if they are asleep.

Vehicle Safety Tips

Always supervise your child. Never leave your child alone in a vehicle, even for a short time or with windows open.
Avoid distractions while driving. Keep your eyes on the road. If your child needs help, pull over safely on the side of the road or stop in a nearby parking lot. Learn more at Distracted Driving.
Keep car keys out of reach. Avoid using keys as toys. Store keys out of sight and out of reach of your child.
Teach your child vehicles are not play areas. Remind children that a vehicle is not a safe place to explore and play.
Keep your vehicle smoke-free. In Ontario, it is illegal to smoke in a vehicle with anyone under 16 years of age. Learn more about Smoking & Vaping.
Secure loose items. Loose objects (like mirrors, signs, or snow brushes) can become dangerous in an accident. Store items safely in the trunk or in a compartment.

Date modified

November 12, 2025