News

News

RV Travel Savings Unlikely to Pencil Out When Safety Is Added to the Equation

CPSTs should be prepared for a potential rise in RV interest among families. In a study published earlier this year, researchers compared the cost of visiting nine popular U.S. tourist destinations over three vacation durations. For every scenario, the researchers concluded that traveling by RV was significantly less expensive than trips involving other modes of transportation (planes, cars) or lodging (hotels, rental properties).

Read More from “RV Travel Savings Unlikely to Pencil Out When Safety Is Added to the Equation”

Latest 2023-2024 LATCH Manual Update

Page A-6, Baby Jogger

REASON FOR UPDATE: Baby Jogger has restated its inflatable seat belt policy. Update the crossed-out information with the text in red.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-6, if you like.)

Inflatable Seat Belt (ISB) Policy
Do not use an ISB to install City Turn or any City Go model that is used with using its stay-in-car base, but a. A Ford ISB may be used to install any CityGo model that is used without its base. Follow for baseless installations, following the CR instructions for routing the seat belt.
The City View all-in-1 CR (whether in harness or booster mode) may also be installed using a Ford ISB in any mode (harness or booster). However, when installing, do not run the ISB’s shoulder belt through the CR’s lock-off. A Ford ISB may not be used to install City Turn in RF mode, but it may be used to install City Turn when in FF-harness and booster modes, provided the ISB’s shoulder belt does not go through the CR’s lock-off.

Page A-9, Baby Trend

REASON FOR UPDATE: Baby Trend has issued a LATCH-related recall. Add the text in red. (Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-9, if you like.)

LATCH-Related Recall
If frayed, the LA strap on the Hybrid 3-in-1 Combination Booster (Model #FB49E14A, Desert Blue, made on 12/6/21) may not meet the strength required by FMVSS 213 and FMVSS 209. Until the LA attachment has been replaced, install the CR using a seat belt. (If a seat belt cannot be used, inspect the original LA strap carefully for fraying or other damage and, if in good condition, use it only until it can be replaced.) Call 800-328-7363 for information or search Recalls and Safety Notices at www.babytrend.com.

Page A-27, Diono

REASON FOR UPDATE: Diono has a restated inflatable seat belt policy. Update the crossed-out information with the text in red.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-27, if you like.)

Inflatable Seat Belt (ISB) Policy
Follow guidance in the CR owner’s manual. Diono all-in-1 CRs and Cambria and Monterey boosters made
through 2017 were tested and approved for use with Ford ISBs. Since a testing lab is no longer available, ISBs may not be used with CRs or boosters made since 2018.

Please consult the instruction manual that comes with the CR to learn whether a Diono CR can be used with Ford’s inflatable seat belts. Because Diono can no longer test convertible and booster seats with Ford’s inflatable seat belts, ISBs may not be used to install new CRs going forward, as stated in the CR’s instruction manual. If you need further clarification, please call Diono’s customer service at 855-463-4666.

Page A-28, Dorel

REASON FOR UPDATE: New CR models are exceptions to Dorel’s stated LA attachment weight limit information.  Add text in red.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-28, if you like.)

  • Maximum child weight for LA attachment use:
    • FF child weight limit: 40 pounds for most models. (Exceptions: The LA attachment may be used up to a child weight of 45 pounds for EverSlim (aka SlimRide) and up to 55 pounds for TriMate (aka TriFIt). The LA attachment may be used at all harness use weights for models with a harness use limit of 50 pounds, such as Apt 50, Comfy Convertible, and Finale.)

Page A-28, Dorel

REASON FOR UPDATE: Dorel has modified its policy on required tether use. Add text in red.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-28, if you like.)

  • Tether use is required for all forward-facing CRs with an internal harness made since January 2017, provided the seating position has a tether anchor, and for Safety 1st Go Hybrid in harness mode (any manufacture date, every situation). (Note: Safety 1st ceased production of Go Hybrid as of January 2015; for newer units, see IMMI entry.) For all other CRs made before January 2017, tether use is strongly encouraged.

Page A-30, Dorel

REASON FOR UPDATE: New Dorel CR models have a different storage method for LA attachment than other models. Add text in red.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-30, if you like.)

  • Storage: On a few models (Able 65, Alpha Omega), hook connectors to one another behind the CR (not between harness and CR). Other models have designated storage: Convertibles (and some older all-in-1s): Route LA strap through the FF belt path and hook to attachment points on either side of top of shell. Exceptions: On Advance 65 Air +, Advance 70 Air +, and Elite 80 Air+, route to attachment points on each side of the nonremovable base. On Scenera NEXT and Maxi-Cosi Romi, attachment points are in front of the RF belt path, so an unused LA strap must route through the FF belt path when the CR is installed RF, and through the RF belt path when the CR faces forward. Newer all-in-1 models: On Continuum, EverFit, Grow and Go (all variations), MultiFit, MultiFit EX Air, TrioFit, and Ultra Max, route LA strap through the RF belt path and connect to attachment points just behind each RF belt path opening. On Magellan (all variations), store connectors by hooking them inside storage slots in the seat pan under the seat cushion padding. (The seat cushion of Magellan XP/XP Max models zips off for access to LA attachment storage and the RF belt path.) For Maxi-Cosi Emme 360 and Safety 1st Turn and Go 360, place the LA attachment in a compartment on the bottom rear of the CR.

Page A-31. Dorel

REASON FOR UPDATE: Dorel’s Maxi-Cosi and Safety 1st brands issued LATCH-related recalls. Add text in red.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-31, if you like.)

LATCH-Related Recall
The self-retracting LA attachment system on bases for the following models, made February 2023 or earlier, may not lock to hold the base tight. Until a new base is received, install the CR (with base or baseless) using a vehicle seat belt. (Note: The recall applies to some versions sold in Canada. It does not apply to models in the U.S. or Canada with similar names that have a non-retracting LA attachment system.) Contact Dorel at 877-657-9546 or send an email to RetractableLatchRecall@djgusa.com.
Maxi-Cosi:
Coral XP (#IC313) made 5/1/20–2/28/23. (Note: Another recall on this model supersedes this recall. Do not use; no replacement base is available.)
Mico XP (#IC336, #IC38) made 9/1/20–2/28/23.
Mico XP Max (#IC337) made 9/1/20–2/28/23.
Mico Luxe+ (#IC370) made 9/1/20–2/28/23.
Any replacement base with self-retracting LA attachment (#IC335) made 5/1/20–2/28/23.
Safety 1st:
onBoard 35 Secure Tech (#IC351) made 5/1/20–2/28/23.
Any replacement base with self-retracting LA attachment (Secure Tech) pre-2/23/23
Note: The recalled base may also be included in the Gia XP, Zelia 2 Max, Tayla, Tayla XP, Adorra, Mara XT, and Lila CP (Canada) travel systems.

Page A-42, Graco

REASON FOR UPDATE: Graco has added CR weights for new models. Add text in red.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-42, if you like.)

Graco—CR Weights (in pounds)
Use this product weight, when needed, to calculate the child weight
limit for LATCH. Remember: For CRs made since February 2014,
simply follow the LA attachment limit provided by labels and manuals.

4Ever DLX Grad (with trainer)…………………24.10
4Ever DLX Grad (w/o trainer)………………….21.90
SlimFit LX
/ SlimFit3 LX…………………………….19.00 /19.40

Page A-54, Nuna Baby Essentials

REASON FOR UPDATE: Nuna made changes to its REVV model, allowing it to raise the model’s LA attachment weight limit (nonretroactive). Add the text in red.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-54, if you like.)

All Nuna CRs
LA Attachments

  • Maximum child weight for LA attachment use:
    • REVV (pre-Q2 2023): 30 lbs. (RF and FF)
    • REVV (post-Q1 2023): 35 lbs. RF and 40 lbs. FF

Page A-55, Nuna

REASON FOR UPDATE: Nuna raised the weight minimum for FF use (nonretroactive). Add the text in red.

REVV
Use rear facing from 5 to 40 pounds and forward facing from
30 (25 pre-Q2 2023) to 40 pounds and up to 43 inches.

Page A-56, Nuna

REASON FOR UPDATE: Nuna revised its REVV model, resulting in a lower CR weight beginning Q2 2023. Add the text in red.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page A-56, if you like.)

Nuna—CR Weights (in pounds)
Use this product weight, when needed, to calculate the child weight
limit for LATCH. Remember: For CRs made since February 2014,
simply follow the LA attachment limit provided by labels and manuals.

REVV (pre-Q2 2023)…………………32.0
REVV (post-Q1 2023)……………….29.5

Page B-51, Chrysler

REASON FOR UPDATE: Because some CRs sold today have a support leg (load leg) that can be used when the CR is forward facing, FCA will be updating its owner’s manual guidance to include acknowledgment of this type and has supplied the following retroactive statements to clarify information published in the LATCH Manual.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page B-51, if you like).
Revise the following information by adding the text in red.

GRAND
CARAVAN
Minivan
(7- or 8-
passenger,
sold only in
Canada)
21-23 3-pass. Bench:
LATCH

2-pass. Bench:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

N/A
3-pass. Bench:
(2) LATCH

2-pass. Bench:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

(2) LATCH
LATCH
(See “3rd Row…”
note.)
Behind-pass.:
LATCH

Behind-driver:
TA
(Same TA as
center. Use here
only when not…
(5) TAs (8-pass.) or (4) TAs (7-passenger) on backs of seats
3rd Row TA: The TA for the center position may also be used by
a CR in the outboard-behind-driver position (but NEVER…
Head Restraints: Some HRs can be rotated out of the
way. On some 2nd and/or 3rd row seating, the head restraint folds
down onto the front of the seatback…
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether
may be used at all weights recommended by the CR maker.
CRs with a Support Leg: Do not use the CR’s support leg in
this vehicle; keep it stowed. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement
and some OMs state this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance
applies to any CR with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in
Glossary.)

PACIFICA
Van
(7- or 8-
passenger,
includes hybrid
models)
17-23 3-pass. Bench:
LATCH

2-pass. Bench:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

N/A
3-pass. Bench:
(2) LATCH

2-pass. Bench:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

(2) LATCH
LATCH
(See “3rd Row…”
note.)
Behind-pass.:
LATCH

Behind-driver:
TA
(Same TA as
center. Use here
only when not…
(5) TAs (8-passenger) or (4) TAs (7-passenger) on backs of
seats
3rd Row TA: Follow guidance in the “3rd row, TA” note for
MY21-23 Grand Caravan (above)
Head Restraints: Follow guidance in the “Head
Restraints (HRs)” note for MY21-23 Grand Caravan (above)
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether
may be used at all weights recommended by the CR maker.
CRs with a Support Leg: Do not use the CR’s support leg in
this vehicle; keep it stowed. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement
and some OMs state this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance
applies to any CR with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in
Glossary.)

Page B-52, Chrysler

REASON FOR UPDATE: Because some CRs sold today have a support leg (load leg) that can be used when the CR is forward facing, FCA will be updating its owner’s manual guidance to include acknowledgment of this type and has supplied the following retroactive statements to clarify information published in the LATCH Manual.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page B-52, if you like).
Revise the following information by adding the text in red and deleting the struck-out text.

TOWN &
COUNTRY
Minivan
(7- or 8-
passenger)
05-07 Bench Seat:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

N/A
Bench Seat:
Behind-driver:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

(2) LATCH
Without
Stow ‘n Go
Seating:

TA

With
Stow ‘n Go
Seating:

LATCH
None (3) TAs on backs of seats
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether
may be used at all child weights recommended by CR maker.
3rd Row Outboard: A part formerly used to retrofit a
TA here is no longer available. See Dodge in Ch. 6 supplement.
CRs with a Support Leg: When there is under-floor storage in front
of a seating position, DO NOT use the CR’s support leg, keep it
stowed
. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement and some OMs state
this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance applies to any CR
with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in Glossary.)
08-16 Bench Seat:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs or
Swivel ‘n Go:

N/A
Bench Seat:
Behind-driver:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs or
Swivel ‘n Go:

(2) LATCH
LATCH None (3) TAs on lower backs of seats
Head Restraints: On some MY11-16 2nd and/or 3rd row seating,
the head restraint folds down onto the front of the seatback; a…
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether
may be used at all child weights recommended by CR maker.
Swivel ‘n Go Seats (offered MY08-10, 2nd row): Install/use CR
ONLY when vehicle seat is locked in a forward-facing position.
CRs with a Support Leg: Do not use the CR’s support leg in
this vehicle; keep it stored. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement
and some OMs state this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance
applies to any CR with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in Glossary.)

Page B-53, Chrysler

REASON FOR UPDATE: Because some CRs sold today have a support leg (load leg) that can be used when the CR is forward facing, FCA will be updating its owner’s manual guidance to include acknowledgment of this type and has supplied the following retroactive statements to clarify information published in the LATCH Manual.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page B-53, if you like).
Revise the following information by adding the text in red.

VOYAGER
Minivan
(7- or 8-
passenger)
02-05 Bench Seat:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

N/A
Bench Seat:
Behind-driver:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

(2) LATCH
Without
Stow ‘n Go
Seating:

TA

With
Stow ‘n Go
Seating:

LATCH
None (3) TAs on backs of seats
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether
may be used at all child weights recommended by CR maker.
CRs with a Support Leg: If there is under-floor storage in front
of a seating position, DO NOT use the CR’s support leg, keep it
stowed
. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement and some OMs state
this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance applies to any CR
with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in Glossary.)
3rd Row Full Bench, Outboard: A part formerly used to retrofit a
TA here is no longer available. See Dodge in Ch. 6 supplement.
Model Information:
&nbsp-In MY02-04, neither a 3rd row Stow ‘n Go nor a 2nd row
&nbsp&nbspbench seat were options.
&nbsp-MY06-19 not listed because Voyager wasn’t made then.
Voyager Cargo Van: See table “Vehicles with one or two rows.”
20-23 Bench Seat:
LATCH

Bucket Seats:
N/A
Bench Seat:
Behind-driver:
LATCH

Bucket Seats:
(2) LATCH
LATCH
(See “3rd Row…”
note.)
Behind-pass.:
LATCH
Behind-driver:
TA
(Same TA as
center. Use here
only when not…
(4) TAs on backs of seats
3rd Row TA: The TA for the center position may also be used by
a CR in the outboard-behind-driver position (but NEVER…
Head Restraints: Some head restraints can be rotated out of the way. On some 2nd and/or 3rd row seating, the head restraint folds down onto
the front of the seatback; a CR may be installed with the head restraint in this folded position. However, if the head restraint…
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether may be used at all weights recommended by the CR maker.
CRs with a Support Leg: Do not use the CR’s support leg in this vehicle; keep it stowed. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement and some OMs
state this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance applies to any CR with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in Glossary.)
Model Information: In these model years, Voyager sold only in the U.S. and, since MY22, only as a fleet vehicle.

Page B-60, Dodge

REASON FOR UPDATE: Because some CRs sold today have a support leg (load leg) that can be used when the CR is forward facing, FCA will be updating its owner’s manual guidance to include acknowledgment of this type and has supplied the following retroactive statements to clarify information published in the LATCH Manual.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page B-60, if you like).
Revise the following information by adding the text in red.

JOURNEY 4-door
SUV
09-20 LA and TA (2) LATCH (3) TAs on lower backs of seats; find LA photos at www.saferidenews.com, LATCH Gallery.
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether may be used at all
weights recommended by the CR manufacturer.
LA for Center Position: A center LA bar and the inner bar of the outboard-behind-
passenger LATCH position are spaced to make a standard center LATCH position…
Note: Due to center LA bar (see above), warn caregivers to use only proper LA pairs,
spaced 11 inches (280 mm) apart, and never hook two LA connectors to one LA.
Installing Three CRs in 2nd Row: If installing three CRs, use a seat belt or LAs for the
outboard positions and the seat belt for the center position.
CRs with a Support Leg: Do not use the CR’s support leg in this vehicle; keep it stowed.
Although FCA’s CPS Supplement and some OMs state this only for rear-facing CRs, the
guidance applies to any CR with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in Glossary.)
2-Row Model: See table “Vehicles with one or two rows.”

Page B-64, Dodge

REASON FOR UPDATE: Because some CRs sold today have a support leg (load leg) that can be used when the CR is forward facing, FCA will be updating its owner’s manual guidance to include acknowledgment of this type and has supplied the following retroactive statements to clarify information published in the LATCH Manual.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page B-64, if you like).
Revise the following information by adding the text in red.

CARAVAN /
GRAND
CARAVAN
Minivan
(7- or 8-
passenger)
05-07 Bench Seat:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

N/A
Bench Seat:
Behind-driver:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs:

(2) LATCH
Without
Stow ‘n Go
Seating:

TA

With
Stow ‘n Go
Seating:

LATCH
None (3) TAs on backs of seats
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether
may be used at all child weights recommended by CR maker.
3rd Row Full Bench, Outboard: A part formerly used to retrofit a
TA here is no longer available. See Dodge in Ch. 6 supplement.
CRs with a Support Leg: If there is under-floor storage in front
of a seating position, DO NOT use the CR’s support leg, keep it
stowed
. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement and some OMs state
this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance applies to any CR
with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in Glossary.)
Cargo Van: See Caravan, table “Vehicles with one or two rows.”
08-20 Bench Seat:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs or
Swivel ‘n Go:

N/A
Bench Seat:
Behind-driver:
LATCH

Captain’s
Chairs or
Swivel ‘n Go:

(2) LATCH
LATCH None (3) TAs on lower backs of seats
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether
may be used at all child weights recommended by CR maker.
Swivel ‘n Go Seats (offered MY08-10, 2nd row): Install/use CR
ONLY when vehicle seat is locked in a forward-facing position.
Head Restraints: On some MY11-20 2nd and/or 3rd row seating,
head restraint folds down onto the front of the seatback; a CR…
CRs with a Support Leg: Do not use the CR’s support leg in
this vehicle; keep it stowed. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement
and some OMs state this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance
applies to any CR with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in Glossary.)
Cargo Van: See table “Vehicles with one or two rows.”

Page B-66, Dodge

REASON FOR UPDATE: Because some CRs sold today have a support leg (load leg) that can be used when the CR is forward facing, FCA will be updating its owner’s manual guidance to include acknowledgment of this type and has supplied the following retroactive statements to clarify information published in the LATCH Manual.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page B-66, if you like).
Revise the following information by adding the text in red.

JOURNEY
7-passenger
SUV
09-20 LA and TA (2) LATCH N/A None (3) TAs on lower backs of seats; find LA photos at
www.saferidenews.com, LATCH Gallery.
Head Restraints: The head restraint in a 3rd row outboard position must be flipped to the upright position when installing a CR.
TA Weight Limit: If a seat belt is used to install a CR, the tether may be used at all weights recommended by the CR maker.
LA for Center Position: A 2nd row center LA bar and the inner bar of the outboard-behind-passenger LATCH position are spaced to make a
standard center LATCH position. If used for a center installation, DO NOT…
Note: Due to 2nd row’s center LA bar (see above), warn caregivers to use only proper LA pairs, spaced 11 inches (280 mm) apart, and never
hook two LA connectors to one LA.
Installing Three CRs in 2nd Row: If installing three CRs, use a seat belt or LAs for the outboard positions and the seat belt for the center
position.
CRs with a Support Leg: Do not use the CR’s support leg in this vehicle; keep it stowed. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement and some OMs
state this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance applies to any CR with a support leg.
(See “Support Leg” in Glossary.)
2-Row Model: See table “Vehicles with one or two rows.”

Page B-194, Ram

REASON FOR UPDATE: Because some CRs sold today have a support leg (load leg) that can be used when the CR is forward facing, FCA will be updating its owner’s manual guidance to include acknowledgment of this type and has supplied the following retroactive statements to clarify information published in the LATCH Manual.
(Click here for a PDF that has been formatted so it can be printed, cut out, and attached to page B-194, if you like).
Revise the following information by adding the text in red.

  • • CRs with a support leg: Unless a model note says a CR’s support leg may be used, do NOT use it; keep it stowed. Although FCA’s CPS Supplement and some OMs state this only for rear-facing CRs, the guidance applies to any CR with a support leg. (See “Support Leg” in Glossary.)

Ask Katrina: Sometimes, Finding Information for Using CRs in Pickup Trucks Is Half the Battle

In this regular column, SRN shares vehicle-related information from Katrina Rose, SRN collaborator and vehicle liaison for the LATCH Manual. For the March/April 2023 issue, Katrina shared answers to some questions posed by technicians regarding pickup trucks.

Because pickup trucks are very popular while at the same time often challenging for CR use, SRN focuses special attention on understanding them so we can provide helpful guidance in our publications, such as the LATCH Manual.

Read More from “Ask Katrina: Sometimes, Finding Information for Using CRs in Pickup Trucks Is Half the Battle”

When and How to Break a Window

In an emergency, know these right (and wrong) ways to purposely shatter automotive glass

Most CPSTs have noticed that TV shows rarely depict CPS best practices. An episode from ABC’s Modern Family provides a good example when a dad frantically runs toward his vehicle intending to break a window with a garbage can to free his infant daughter locked inside.

Read More from “When and How to Break a Window”

“Ask Katrina” Column

Regular column will highlight vehicle-specific tips from SRN’s vehicle specialist

In a new column, “Ask Katrina,” SRN will share vehicle-related CPS information from Katrina Rose, SRN collaborator and vehicle liaison for the LATCH Manual. Katrina regularly fields questions posed by technicians in the field, so this column will provide an opportunity to share her answers and insights with all SRN readers.

We’ll kick off the column with a fundamental question:

Read More from ““Ask Katrina” Column”

New Resources Worth a Closer Look

SRN readers are likely to be savvy users of the most fundamental resources for CPSTs—all the more reason to read this article carefully for important updates.

Readers may have noticed a couple of new resources mentioned a lot lately: Child Passenger Safety Learning Portal and the National CPS Board YouTube page. Both have popped up quite a bit in recent social media posts and articles directed at CPSTs, and some readers may have already bookmarked these links. But these particular resources warrant a closer look, as they are not simply handy new websites to keep in our back pocket (though they are indeed handy). In fact, they represent important revisions to how key CPS information is offered—and will be offered going forward. As such, all CPSTs should be aware of these resources and incorporate them into their CPS practice.

Read More from “New Resources Worth a Closer Look”

“Help! Riding Rear Facing Makes My Child Sick!”

CPSTs are occasionally approached by caregivers whose children struggle with car sickness, and those with younger children sometimes wonder if riding rear facing is the crux of this problem. In Washington state (where the law requires children to ride rear facing until age 2), state CPS coordinator Cesi Velez was asked a question on this theme. The caregiver of a 19-month-old wanted to know if a doctor could issue her a letter of exemption from the state’s child occupant protection (COP) law. Her child had been vomiting in her car seat, and the parent felt that having the child face forward would solve the problem.

Read More from ““Help! Riding Rear Facing Makes My Child Sick!””

Data to Drive the CPS Field

Nowadays, it’s a given that data drives professional decision-making. So, it’s essential for those working in the CPS field to be aware of and have access to reliable data sources. Important activities, including budgeting, program planning, fundraising, research, and advocacy, all benefit from using relevant data.

Read More from “Data to Drive the CPS Field”

The Truth About “True” Lock-Offs

A few years ago, SRN reported on an emerging phenomenon: CRs with features that looked and acted like lock-offs but weren’t.

Since then, these features have become more common. Nowadays, CPSTs who see anything that looks like a lock-off ask, “Is that a true lock-off?” While a mechanism that functions as a lock-off must be a “true,” authentic lock-off, “true lock-off” has become part of the CPST vernacular when wondering whether a CR part that appears to be a lock-off actually is one.

Read More from “The Truth About “True” Lock-Offs”

Lock-Offs and Their Look-Alikes

It’s important for CPSTs to understand what is (and isn’t) a lock-off

Until 1996, CR installation with a lap-shoulder belt nearly always required using a locking clip to hold the belt tight. This was often difficult (or altogether overlooked), so it was a relief when other solutions came along.

Read More from “Lock-Offs and Their Look-Alikes”