The video referenced suggests that installing a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system involves strapping the car seat in place and utilizing the top tether for added stability.
While the video snippet is brief, a complete LATCH system installation generally includes these steps:
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Locate the Lower Anchors: Identify the lower anchor bars in your vehicle's back seat. They are typically found in the seat bight (where the seat back and seat cushion meet). Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the exact location.
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Attach the Car Seat: Connect the car seat's lower anchor connectors to the vehicle's lower anchors. You may need to thread the connectors through a designated path on the car seat base, depending on the model. Listen for a click to ensure a secure connection.
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Tighten the Straps: Tighten the LATCH straps to eliminate slack and ensure the car seat is firmly in place. Follow the car seat manufacturer's instructions for proper tightening techniques.
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Locate the Top Tether Anchor: Find the top tether anchor in your vehicle. The location varies depending on the vehicle make and model; consult your vehicle's owner's manual. It may be behind the seat, on the ceiling, or in the cargo area.
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Attach the Top Tether: Connect the car seat's top tether strap to the vehicle's top tether anchor.
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Tighten the Top Tether: Tighten the top tether strap to remove slack. The top tether provides added stability, preventing the car seat from rotating forward in a crash.
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Test the Installation: Once the car seat is installed, check for excessive movement. The car seat should not move more than one inch side-to-side or front-to-back when grasped near the belt path.
It's crucial to consult both your vehicle's owner's manual and your car seat's instruction manual for specific guidance on installing a LATCH system correctly, as installation methods can vary. Some fire departments and hospitals offer free car seat safety checks to ensure proper installation.
