Common misconceptions about booster seats include the belief that they are a one-size-fits-all solution. In reality, booster seats do not provide the necessary support for children under 4 years of age or those who have yet to reach the appropriate height or weight for a seat belt. Additionally, many booster cushions lack side impact protection, which is a critical safety feature that should not be overlooked.
Extended Harnessing was introduced on the 17 September 2014; with the new Australian Standards for child restraints. The 2014 Australian standard, saw the introduction ISOFIX child restraints; as well as introducing the G type child restraint (extended forward facing); and the A4 type baby car seat (extended rear facing child restraint).
Extended harnessing is a vital concept for the safety of young children in vehicles. The introduction of the G type car seat is a significant advancement in child restraint technology, allowing children to remain harnessed longer than traditional booster seats. This transition promotes better safety by ensuring children are properly secured as they grow. The differences between extended harnessing seats and booster seats are crucial for parents to understand, particularly in terms of safety, convenience, and proper fit.
Why Use Extended HarnessingStatistics show that children aged 4-7 are significantly safer in extended harnessing seats. According to research, using a harness system reduces the risk of severe injury by up to 70%. This evidence underscores the importance of using G type seats in the critical early years of a child’s life.
As children grow, the importance of proper harness adjustments becomes critical. The G type seats mentioned not only adapt as your child grows but also ensure that they remain safely secured without the need for frequent re-threading of straps, which can often be a source of frustration for parents. The ease of transitioning between harness settings is a considerable advantage.
When selecting a G type car seat, factors such as ease of use, comfort for the child, and the seat’s safety ratings should be considered. The safe n sound maxi guard, for instance, offers a comfortable design and a user-friendly harness adjustment system, making it a favourite among parents. Additionally, the Infa Emerge by Infa Secure is praised for its robust side impact protection, providing peace of mind to parents concerned about safety on the road.
Extended harnessing has become increasingly popular due to its enhanced safety features compared to traditional booster seats. Specifically, these seats are designed to accommodate children until they reach a height or weight threshold that makes them safe to transition to a standard seat belt. This is particularly important in reducing injury risk during a car accident, as children are often safer when secured in a harness rather than being restrained by a vehicle’s seat belt alone.
It’s important to note that many parents inadvertently rush the process of transitioning their children to booster seats. While legal requirements may allow for this change at 4 years old, best practices suggest that children remain in their G type seats until they are at least 6 years old or until they reach the maximum weight limit of their seat. This extra precaution can save lives.
The Safety 1st Sentry; has a complicated re-thread path; making me wonder what happens if it is threaded incorrectly??
Problems with Booster SeatsThe law says a child must be harness until 4 years of age; sadly some parents; move their child to boosters seats when they reach 4 years of age.
The Australian standards board for child restraints realized this; and introduced shoulder height marker into the 2010 standard; unfortunately many parents are still moving children prematurely into booster seats. The introduction of the G type seat (extended harnessing) eliminates the problem of having small children in a booster seat.
When on holiday in Melbourne; hire an extended harnessing seat from TravelSafe. Extended harnessing forward facing car seat solves the issue of parents putting their children into a booster seat prematurely.
In conclusion, the choice between extended harnessing and booster seats is not merely a matter of preference but a significant decision that impacts a child’s safety during car travel. Parents should be fully informed about the latest standards, the benefits of extended harnessing, and the potential risks associated with premature transitions to booster seats. Prioritising safety and compliance with the guidelines set forth by authorities can ultimately lead to safer journeys for all children.
A G type car seat is safer than a booster seat because
While ISOFIX provides a secure method of installation for car seats, it is crucial to understand that not all types of seats can accommodate this system. Extended harnessing seats offer flexibility and safety features that ensure children are well-protected during travel, making them a smarter choice for parents who want the best for their children.
- it has a 6 point harness
- there is no chance of a seat belt being near the neck.
- smaller 4 year old child can safely use a g type car seat
- better for fitting three across the second row
Ultimately, parents are encouraged to seek professional advice when selecting a car seat and to keep abreast of the latest safety standards. Regularly reviewing the fit of the car seat and adjusting it as needed can make a significant difference in ensuring your child’s safety in the vehicle.
Bum boosters and booster cushions should never be used. These boosters have no side impact protection and no back support for your child
Is ISOFIX SaferThe 2014 Australian standard saw the introduction of Isofix as a installation method. Isofix cannot be used on extended harnessing seats; it can only be used on seats that go to a maximum of 4 years of age.
Is extended rear facing worth it?
Yes. it has been shown that keeping a child rear facing it is 5 x safer than turning a child forward facing pre-maturely
Baby Car Seat Installation in Melbourne
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We service Bayside and the South East Suburbs of Melbourne
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