LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is an attachment system that allows you to install a car seat without using seat belts. 

There are two sets of small bars, called lower anchors, located in the back seat of the vehicle where the upper and lower cushions meet. Car seats that come with LATCH have attachments that fasten to the anchors. LATCH is required on all vehicles manufactured after September 1, 2002, and on most child car seats.

Unless both your car and  your child car seat have this anchor system, you will need to use the seat belts to fasten your car seat.

Tethers 

Top tethers are not to be used with rear-facing infant seats or most rear-facing convertible seats. Check your car seat owner’s manual to confirm that you can use the tether safely. 

Tether anchors have been required in new cars, minivans and light trucks since September 2000. The tether anchor can be located in any number of locations (rear window ledge, back of the vehicle, under the seat, floor, ceiling, etc.). Check your vehicle owner’s manual if you have trouble finding it. A tether strap at the top of the car seat attaches to the anchor. Upper tether attachment improves protection by anchoring the top of the seat more securely and preventing it (and the child’s head) from moving too far forward in a crash or sudden stop.

Important: Only use LATCH in a seating position recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. If using the lower anchors, do not use the vehicle's seat belt.

Proper Installation

• The car seat’s LATCH belt must be routed through the opening on the seat labeled rear-facing. The belt must lay flat and not be twisted.
• Adjust the car seat to the reclining position on the vehicle seat equipped with LATCH anchors.
• For ease of installation, extend the LATCH belt to its maximum length.
• Attach to the vehicle lower anchors. (See car seat instruction manual for details.) Be sure the seat is securely attached.
• Press down firmly or kneel in the center of the car seat to compress the vehicle seat cushion while tightening the LATCH belt. (The seat must not move more than one inch from side to side or front to back at the belt path.) If the seat does not stay tight, try another seating position or unclip the LATCH system and use youSource r seat belt system.
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Information Source carseatsmadesimple.org