Child Passenger Safety

All children under age 7 or 57 inches (whichever is reached first) must use a properly fastened and secured child safety seat. Children under age 18 must be properly restrained in a motor vehicle including a car, pickup truck or SUV. (RSA 265:107-a)

Rear-facing (birth to age 2)

Use either a rear-facing only seat or a convertible seat until the child reaches the weight or height limit of the seat. It is recommended that children remain in a rear-facing seat until at least age 2. A rear-facing seat with a harness provides the most protection.

Forward-facing (age 2 to 6)

Use a child safety seat with a harness until the child reaches the weight or height limit of the harness. The harness can range from 40 – 90 lbs. A seat with a harness provides more protection.

Booster Seat (age 7 to 4 ft. 9 in.)

Use a booster seat when the child outgrows the harnessed seat. The purpose of the booster seat is to raise the child up so the lap-shoulder safety belt fits properly. A booster’s weight limit can range up to 110 lbs.

Seat Belt (at least 4 ft. 9 in. to age 18)

Use a lap-shoulder belt when the child can sit safely without a booster seat. This is usually at 4 feet 9 inches when the child is between 8 – 12 years old.

If you are interested in having your child’s safety seat inspected or if you have any questions regarding child passenger safety, please call Officer Christopher Maguire at the Newton Police Department (603-382-6774).