What are safety seat recalls?

Just like automobiles and many other products, a car safety seat may be "recalled" because of a defect which could injure your child. Manufacturers are required to fix the problem free of charge. If your seat is recalled, be sure to get it fixed right away.

When you hear about a seat being recalled:

• Find out which models and manufacturing dates are involved. Remember, the date of manufacture is the "birthday" of your seat. It helps you know if yours is one being recalled.
• Call the toll-free number of the company for information.
• If you are not sure if your seat has been recalled or you don't know the correct telephone number, call the toll-free DOT Auto Safety Hotline in Washington, D.C., 1-888-DASH-2-DOT.

Before you call:
Write down this information about your child's seat:
Manufacturer's Name________________________________
Model Number/Name________________________________
Manufacture Date___________________________________

This information is printed on labels attached underneath, on the side, or the back of the seat. Some of the information may be in number codes. Bring the seat to the telephone so you can answer questions about it.

Does the seat have to be sent back?
Not usually. Most problems can be fixed by replacing a part that the manufacturer will send you for free. Sometimes, with an older seat or when the company is out of business, you may be told to destroy it. To make sure it is not reused, break it with a sledgehammer, crush it, or take it completely apart, marking it "not for use as a car seat" before throwing it out in a black plastic bag.

Should I go on using a recalled seat?
Many defects are minor, but some are serious. All problems should be corrected as soon as possible.

• Unless you have another seat, you should go on using the recalled one while you are waiting for the repair kit. Using a recalled car safety seat almost always is safer than letting your child ride in a safety belt only.

New safety seats come with registration cards. If you buy a new one, be sure to register it. Then the manufacturer can let you know by mail if your child's seat has been recalled. If you have an older seat, call the Auto Safety Hotline or the manufacturer to find out how to register it.

If you think your seat has a problem that could be a safety defect, call the Auto Safety Hotline to report it. Also call the safety seat manufacturer. Many serious problems are discovered from reports by parents.