Do read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before installing your car seat.
Do ensure that the car seat is appropriate for your child's height, weight, and age.
Do position the car seat in the back seat of the car, as this is the safest place for children to sit.
Do make sure that the car seat is tightly secured in the car and doesn't move more than an inch in any direction.
Do adjust the harness straps to fit your child snugly, with no slack.
Do ensure that the chest clip is positioned at armpit level, to prevent the harness straps from slipping off the shoulders.
Do remove bulky clothing and blankets before strapping your child into the car seat, to ensure a proper fit.
Do use a rear-facing car seat until your child reaches the maximum weight or height allowed by the manufacturer.
Do use a forward-facing car seat with a harness until your child is at least 4 years old or reaches the maximum weight or height allowed by the manufacturer.
Do use a booster seat until your child is tall enough to use the car's seat belt properly.
Do replace your car seat after a moderate or severe crash, even if there is no visible damage.
Do register your car seat with the manufacturer to ensure that you receive any recall notifications.
Do have your car seat checked by a certified child passenger safety technician to ensure that it is installed correctly.
Do use a car seat every time your child rides in a car, even for short trips.
Do set a good example for your child by always wearing your own seatbelt.
Don't install a car seat in the front seat of a car with an active airbag, as this can be dangerous for your child.
Don't use a car seat that has been involved in a moderate or severe crash, even if there is no visible damage.
Don't use a car seat that has been recalled or has expired.
Don't use a car seat that is too old or has been passed down from a previous owner, as it may not meet current safety standards.
Don't use a car seat that is too big or small for your child, as this can be dangerous in the event of a crash.
Don't loosen the harness straps to make your child more comfortable, as this can compromise their safety in a crash.
Don't use aftermarket products, such as car seat covers or head supports, that have not been tested and approved by the car seat manufacturer.
Don't allow your child to wear a bulky coat or snowsuit while strapped into a car seat, as this can interfere with the harness fit.
Don't place a rear-facing car seat in the front seat of a car without first disabling the airbag.
Don't turn your child forward-facing too soon, before they reach the minimum age, weight, or height requirements.
Don't move your child from a booster seat to using only a seatbelt too soon, before they are tall enough to use the seatbelt properly.
Don't allow your child to ride in a car without a car seat or booster seat, even for short trips.
Don't use a car seat that has been modified or altered in any way, as this can compromise its safety.
Don't rely on the car's built-in seatbelt adjuster to position the car seat's harness straps, as this may not be effective.
Don't let your child ride in a car with a driver who is not wearing a seatbelt.
Don't keep a car seat in your car unless it’s correctly installed.