In an effort to remove unsafe and expired car seats from circulation, several AAA offices in Minnesota and Iowa will be drop-off sites for old, used and expired child safety seats until Sept. 15. After a safety seat is six-years- old, or if the history of the seat is unknown, the AAA of Minnesota and Iowa suggest that the seat be destroyed. This will decrease the number of safety seats used beyond manufacturer recommendation. “Since federal standards on safety seats were significantly upgraded in 1996 and 1999, we recommend not using safety seats manufactured before 1996,” said Shannon Swanson, child passenger safety technician. According to AAA, parents shouldn’t accept a used car seat from anyone unless it is newer than six-years-old. In addition, a second-hand car seat shouldn’t be used if: o It has been involved in a crash. If it has, it has done its job. Possible unseen damage may make it less effective. o It is missing any parts or installation instructions. You need instructions to make sure the seat is compatible with your vehicle, and appropriate for your child’s weight and size. o Based on inspection, it is visually or structurally damaged. o It has been subject to a recall and hasn’t been repaired. o It is more than 6-years-old. Manufacturing standards have changed. AAA recommends parents read their vehicle and car seat owner’s manuals carefully and follow installation instructions, taking into account their child’s age and size. In addition, AAA recommends parents have their car seats inspected by a certified child passenger safety technician. To receive a free inspection, call Shannon Swanson at (952) 707-4623, or visit www.buckleupkids.state.mn.us for a state-wide list of inspection events and locations. The AAA St. Cloud office that will accept used and expired car seats is located at 3959 2nd Street S., Suite 210. The office can be reached at (320) 251-6200.
