fitting baby car seat Page 8

Fitting a baby car seat isn’t witchcraft, but it does demand patience and a stern reading of both the car and seat manuals. Use the ISOFIX anchors (if your car has them) or the seatbelt path, and always attach the top tether to the approved anchor—this is mandatory in Australia. For newborns and infants, keep the seat rear‑facing as long as allowed by the seat; tighten the harness so it’s snug with the retainer at armpit level, no bulky jackets. Press your weight into the seat while tightening to remove slack; the base shouldn’t move more than about 2–3 cm at the belt path. Position the seat at the correct recline angle, avoid airbag zones for rear‑facing in front seats, and never use accessories not approved by the seat manufacturer. If in doubt, visit an authorised child restraint fitter—many councils and motoring clubs offer them—and enjoy the smug glow of doing it right.