FEDS WANT ANSWERS ON WHY INFANT SEATS NOT RECALLED

This story first appeared in USA Today.

Federal safety officials on Thursday ordered child seat maker Graco to explain why it decided to exclude seven infant seat models from its recall of 3.8 million child seats last month and to hand over a trove of other related information.

In the child seats recalled, the buckles may not unlatch, making it difficult to remove the child from the seat. That could increase the risk of injury in a crash, fire or other emergency when a speedy exit from the vehicle is required.

The "special order" issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, asks for all complaints and information relating to its decision to change buckles and suppliers.

Graco said earlier that food and dried liquids can make some harness buckles progressively more difficult to open over time or become stuck in the latched position.

"We have received a request for information from NHTSA and are happy to comply with their request," Graco said in a statement Thursday . "We look forward to working with NHTSA as we continue our ongoing, constructive conversation to clarify any questions."

Graco said the company remains confident that its car seats are safe and comply with NHTSA's standards: "They have withstood rigorous internal testing that far exceeds federal requirements."

Consumers can order free replacement harness buckles online. The company says the seats can still be used while waiting for the new buckle. Graco's customer service team can be reached at 800-345-4109 or consumerservices@gracobaby.com.