What is the LATCH system for car seats?

The Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system was created to make the installation of child safety seats easier. LATCH is required on car seats and vehicles made after Sept. 1, 2002.

• Allows you to install your child’s car seat without using seat belts. LATCH cannot be used with the seat belt. A car seat should be used with either a seat belt or LATCH—not both.
• Attaches to matching anchors in a LATCH-equipped vehicle.
• Vehicles must have lower and upper anchors. If there are no lower anchors, use a seat belt to install the car seat.
• Always refer to the vehicle owner’s manual to determine seating positions with lower anchors and locations of upper anchors.
• LATCH and seat belts are equally safe and tested to the same standards. LATCH is not safer than the seat belt.