Child car seats

A child’s car seat may be the most important safety device you ever provide for your child. Even in a minor collision an unrestrained child may be thrown about inside the vehicle, injuring themselves and others. They could also be thrown from the car through one of the windows.

In the United Kingdom it is estimated that approximately seventy five percent of all child car seats in use are incorrectly fitted, incompatible with the car or van or inappropriate for the child.

Information about the law about carrying children in cars and vans can be found at https://www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules.

There is a huge variety of seats to choose from for different weights and ages; every seat has different installation instructions which need to be followed carefully.  A series of short films giving Information about car seat groupings and the most appropriate seat for your child can be found on the RoSPA website at: http://www.childcarseats.org.uk/films/

Further information can be found at www.goodeggcarsafety.com.  Good Egg also have a film showing the five most common faults regarding the fitting of child car seats.  These include loose or twisted harnesses, padded or bulky clothing, ‘buckle crunch’ and incorrect seat belt routing.  https://youtu.be/nZKbzXF5YHA

Remember to always buy a car seat from a reputable retailer who can demonstrate how the seat fits your car or van before you make a purchase.  Check that the staff are trained and qualified to fit car seats.

Never buy a second hand child car seat and never use one once it has been involved in a collision.