Five questions about car seat safety – expert answers

Traffic safety expert Elias Ruutti explains how to use a car seat correctly and what to consider when buying one.

1. How to use a car seat correctly and safely

A car seat is chosen based on the child's weight and height, with the correct sizes specific to each safety device. As a rule of thumb, newborns travel in an infant carrier, and you switch to a car seat when the carrier's height and weight limits are exceeded. Children under 4 years old must always travel rear-facing, and this is recommended for as long as possible.

"Previously, classifications were based on weight, but the new regulation is primarily based on height. The safety device always indicates what size it's approved for," explains Elias Ruutti, expert at Liikenneturva.

A car seat can be installed in two ways: either with Isofix or with seat belts.

"Both methods are equally safe, as long as the safety device is installed correctly," Ruutti notes.

2. Where should a car seat be placed in the vehicle?

The car seat should always be placed in the back seat of the vehicle. A child can travel in the front seat under certain conditions, but you must pay special attention to the device and vehicle instructions.

"If the car has an active front passenger airbag, a child must never be placed in the front seat rear-facing—it can create a life-threatening situation," Ruutti warns.