Stage 1 - Birth to at least 2 years

Children are best protected riding in a rear facing- car seat as long as possible. Michigan does not have a standard of when a child may turn around. All babies and and toddlers should ride in rear-facing car seats until they reach the highest wight or height limit allowed by the car seat (check manual or stickers on the side of the seat).

Proper use /installation of rear facing car seats is as follows:

• Harness Straps: at or below shoulder level
• Harness clip: always at armpit level
• Strap: snug with no slack on shoulder or hip area
• Angle: use an angle indicator on seat or base to determine proper recline
• Installation: less than 1 inch of movement when tested at the seat belt path; use Either a locked seat belt or an approved LATCH position Never both
• In Vehicle: rear-facing in the back seat, never in front of an active front air bag