Car seat safety is once again in the news, reminding buyers that US seats are illegal to use in Canada. CTV reports that a happy new grandmother received an unhappy reminder when she was told she couldn’t bring her grandchild home in a US-bought seat.
Potential cost savings in the US draws a large number of Canadians to their stores. But according to Transport Canada, it’s illegal to import and use child seats that do not comply with Canadian standards.
Canadian safety regulations for car seats are stricter than in other countries. Weight restrictions, levels of strength, flammability, padding thickness, and instructions for seat installation are all important factors in Canadian regulations. And border agents don’t need to tell consumers about Canadian regulations, so be sure you’re aware of them before making any purchases.
How can you be sure your child is in a Canadian-approved car seat? Ensure the car seat has the National Safety Mark, as seen below. This means it is certified and up to Canadian safety standards. If you are caught using an illegal seat, you could be charged and fined under the Child Safety Seat Regulations.
So while the US may have cheaper products, consider the consequences. It’s not worth the risk to you or your child.
For More Information:
- Baby on board? Not if car seat bought in U.S., CTV News
- Child Restraint Laws, RCMP
- Child car seat cross border shopping – what parents and caregivers should know, Transport Canada
