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Report-a-claim in the Lower Mainland by calling 604-520-8222 or 1-800-910-4222 for the rest of B.C.

Buying a child seat

See also: Child Seat Ease of Use Ratings

A correctly fitted and installed child seat could save your child's life in an otherwise life-threatening crash. Make sure you do your research and try some different child seats on for size before you buy.

To learn more about child seat ease of use ratings, go here.

10 steps to help you buy the right child seat

  1. Decision time. It's time to decide on the appropriate seat for your child. Read ICBC's Buying & Installing a Child Seat brochure, check out what kind do I need, and ICBC's latest "ease-of-use ratings", to help make your decision.
  2. Still need advice? Call the toll free Child Passenger Safety Information Line at 1-877-247-5551.
  3. Start shopping. If you have narrowed down your options, now it's time to start shopping. You need to bring your child with you on this trip so that you can ensure a proper fit.
  4. Check the list! Don't forget to take ICBC's Buyer's Checklist with you to the store to help you make the right selection for your family.
  5. Try your child in the seat. You may be making adjustments on a regular basis (depending on weather - layers and clothes - and how quickly your child grows or gains weight).
  6. Try installing the seat. Ask the store employees if you can take the seat out to your vehicle to see if it fits. Not all car seats fit all vehicle seats.
  7. Make the purchase. You've done the research and found the right seat. Make sure that you can return it if necessary.
  8. Fill in the warranty! Once satisfied you have the right seat, complete and mail back the warranty card as soon as possible so the manufacturer can contact you if there's a public notice (with safety information) about your child seat.
  9. Considering buying a used child seat? Ensure it meets all current CMVSS standards and use this checklist to find out if it's safe. Also, use ICBC's Buyer's Checklist to help you decide if the seat is right for your family.
  10. Child Seat Clinics. If you're not 100% comfortable that you've installed your child seat correctly or if you just need more information stop by a child seat clinic for assistance.