Stage 3: Booster Seat

What is a booster seat?

It is a seat used for children over 18 kg (40 lb) to ensure proper positioning of the seat belt across the child's chest and pelvis.

Why use a booster seat for my child?

For a child who is the right size and weight using a booster seat is the safest way to ensure the seat belt will be positioned correctly over the child's body.

How to use booster seats

• The shoulder belt goes over the shoulder and across the chest.
• The vehicle lap belt should fit low and snug across the hips and should not ride up over the child's abdomen.
• The booster seat should be placed in the rear seat of the vehicle.

Types of booster seats

Abdominal shield boosters and simple boosters:

• Can be used with a lap belt only or a lap/shoulder belt (follow manufacturer's instructions.)

Simple booster seat.	Abdominal shield booster seat

High back booster seats:

• Need to be used with a lap/shoulder belt.

High back booster seat.

Important points to remember

• Always follow manufacturer's instructions.
• Never use a booster seat for a child who weighs less than 18 kg (40 lb).
• Buckle an empty booster seat when not being used in the vehicle.
• Never put the shoulder belt behind the child or under the arm. It could cause serious injuries or death in a collision or sudden stop.
• Look for the CMVSS label (Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard) and/or the National Safety Mark. A U.S. label is not acceptable.
• Replace a booster seat following a collision, regardless of whether it was occupied or not at the time of the collision.
• Discard of a car seat that is more than 10 years old or past the expiry date as indicated on the seat or in the instructions.
• As of September 1, 2005, children who are being transported in a motor vehicle and meet all of the following criteria, must be restrained in an approved booster seat:
• weigh between 18-36 kg (40-80 lbs)
• have a standing height of less than 145 cm (4'9")
• are under 8 years of age

For information on car seat defects and recalls call Transport Canada at 1 800 333-0371, in Ottawa 613-998-8616.