Whenever you buy a car seat for your child, you should always make sure you stay abreast of all the product recalls that may come up later. You can do this by tuning into the news frequently, or better yet, by visiting websites that will let you know when car seat recalls are in effect.

But what happens if your child’s car seat is recalled? What do you do next?

The first step is to call the toll-free number or visit the website for the recalled seat. In all likelihood, the manufacturer will have a section or a phone line devoted strictly to the recall.

Whenever there’s a recall, car seat companies won’t mess around. They want to make sure your child is safe. Just follow the instructions you see on the website or hear on the phone line.

When you visit the website or phone the manufacturer, be sure you have the child’s car seat in hand. You might need the serial number or the model name, which will usually be printed in the instruction manual.

You will likely be advised to continue using the seat until a repair kit reaches you. Remember, in almost every case, it is safer for your child to ride in a recalled seat than to ride in a car with no child safety restraint.

Here’s another way to stay on top of car seat recalls: Whenever you buy a car seat for your child, register it with the manufacturer. Like many products, all car seats come with a registration card.

People usually throw the cards away without a second thought. But when it comes to your car seat, you should register it so that the manufacturer can contact you.

There’s no guarantee that the company won’t use your address for annoying advertisements, but at least you have the assurance of knowing you’ll be contacted if there’s a recall.

Just remember that if there is a recall, don’t panic: It doesn’t mean it’s a bad seat, period. There are always errors in manufacturing, and when errors are discovered in a car seat, the manufacturer typically works to correct them quickly.

If you have any concerns after a car seat recall, call the company and talk to someone. They will probably be able to put your mind at ease and give advice on what to do.