I emailed all the manufacturers (except SK & Britax) to ask them if they'll have seats that meet the new req's. So far only 2 responses
:"Hi Melissa,
Any car seats produced specifically to comply with Canadian standards should be sold by Babies R Us or Wal-mart. Please check with the retailers for updates.
Sincerely,
Diane J
Baby Trend Customer Service". (Came with an American mailing addy, so obviously this person has no idea what I actually wanted to know.)
"Good Afternoon,
Thank you for taking the time to email your enquiry. As of January 1st, 2011, all car seats manufactured and imported into Canada must comply with the new testing requirements.
The new regulations have no bearing on previous models manufactured and imported into Canada. The National Safety Mark label signifies that the car seat has been approved for sale in Canada.
Provided that your unit has this label, it is legal in Canada, regardless of whether it was tested under the old, or new regulations. Any car seats manufactured and tested to the new regulations, although potentially different from current seats, may have a relatively non noticeable minor variation from the car seats currently being sold. There is no evidence that such variations will make the new car seats any safer than those presently sold in Canada.
Currently there are no car seats that meet the new regulations, however within the new year we expect there to be new models available that do meet the new requirements but we are unsure of when they will be available.
The 2 main reasons why there is a question surrounding the availability of seats for this are
1. There is only one compliance lab to test the car seats
2. Insufficient amount of time given prior to the implementation of the new regulations.
Manufacturers are trying diligently to make the necessary modifications to ensure that the broadest selection possible.
Should you require further assistance or information do not hesitate to contact us. We may be reached at 1-800-667-8184, Monday to Friday 8:30-5:00pm. Any of our representatives will gladly assist you.
Best Regards,
Consumer Services
Elfe Juvenile Products"
Indirectly told me what I wanted but also gave a lot of good info! Here's what I like: "The new regulations have no bearing on previous models manufactured and imported into Canada. ... There is no evidence that such variations will make the new car seats any safer than those presently sold in Canada."
Older vehicles with lap-only belts weren't recalled when the requirement for shoulder belts came in. Nor when air bags were introduced. Nor when the 2nd generation air bags came out. My 1990 car is terrifyingly unsafe compared to a new car, but I'm not about to rush out and buy a new car just because my current car doesn't meet current safety standards. I would think that some parents will rush out and replace their seats (though hope they're smart enough to check the DOM), but these are the same people who *have to* have a brand new vehicle every year or two - so they probably have money to burn. I'm not going to worry about it: its making news now but by January I'm sure the media will have forgotten all about it.
If/when I hear back from any others I will post it.
Melissa