Introduction

Who needs a booster seat?

Children who have outgrown their forward-facing safety seats need booster seats if they:

• Are under 9 years old
  OR
• Weigh between 40 and 80 lb (18-36 kg)
  OR
• Measure less than 4'9'' (145 cm)

Booster seat facts

FACT: An adult seat belt alone does not properly fit a child's body.  Without a booster seat, an adult seat belt rides too high on a child’s belly and neck and can cause serious internal injuries in a crash.

FACT: A child is four times more likely to suffer a head injury in a crash when using just an adult seat belt than when buckled in a booster seat.

FACT: Using a booster seat until a child is at least 9 years old OR 80 lb (36 kg) OR 4'9'' (145 cm) provides the safest ride.

Other booster benefits

• They cost less than other child safety seat types and come in child-friendly colours
• They are easily installed using your seat instructions and your vehicle owner's manual
• They keep kids happy - seat belts are more comfortable and road trips are more fun because they can see out the window!

Still not convinced?

Take 14 minutes to view Riding at Risk, amovie clip from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.  You'll be glad you did!

Next - Choosing & using a booster