High Chair Safety

2008
ISBN: 978-0-662-05675-1
Cat. No.: H128-1/08-536
HC Pub.: 4524

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Safety Tips

• Supervise the child at all times when they are in the high chair. If you need to leave the room, take the child with you.
• Ensure that the high chair is stable and has a wide base to reduce the risk of tipping over.
• Always secure the harness and lap belt when the child is in the high chair. The chair should have a safety strap which fits between the child's legs, and a waist belt that is easy to fasten.
• Take the child out of the high chair before making adjustments to the chair or the tray.
• Do not allow the child to stand on the high chair or the tray. They should be in a sitting position at all times.
• Never allow older children to climb onto the chair.
• Place the high chair so the child cannot access windows, or push against walls and furniture and tip over.
• Place the high chair so the child cannot reach blindcords, appliances, and other items on countertops that they could pull onto themselves.

Children have been hurt by falling out of high chairs. Injuries can be prevented if the harness or lap belt is used properly, and the child is closely supervised.

If buying a second-hand high chair:

• Check that the manufacturer's name, model number, and date of manufacture are marked on the product.
• Check that instructions come with the product to ensure correct usage and appropriate guidelines, such as height and weight restrictions.
• Contact the manufacturer to check for recalls.
• Check to ensure that all parts are in working order, such as harness and lap belts.
• Make sure that the tray has no cracks to avoid finger pinching.
• Make sure that the fabric or vinyl is not torn. Children could choke on small pieces of vinyl and/or foam.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, contact Product Safety, Health Canada

1-866-662-0666
cps-spc@hc-sc.gc.ca