Training

National studies reflect that approximately 80% of all child safety seats are installed or used incorrectly. Local evaluations report misuse rates over 90%. Due to this alarming rate, the Governor's Highway Safety Bureau sponsors Child Passenger Safety Technician courses. Many local police and fire departments send representatives to this course to be trained as technicians.

Requirements

Massachusetts law requires:

• All children to ride in child safety seats until they are five years old and weigh 40 pounds
• Infant seats are to be rear facing until the child is one year old and 20 pounds

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Governor's Highway Safety Bureau additionally recommend booster seats for children five years of age or older and weighing 40-60 pounds.