Inappropriate car seats 'put children at risk of death'

Date: 8/9/2010

Parents who use inappropriate car seats are breaking the law and putting their children at risk, a police sergeant has said.

Jonny Hill of Llandudno Police told North Wales News a crackdown on the incorrect use of child restraints launched this month will help keep youngsters safe.

North Wales Police, the Fire and Rescue Service and Conwy and Denbighshire Councils will be visiting primary schools and mini cab companies with school run contacts to raise awareness about the importance of wearing seatbelts and using car seats correctly.

"This initiative is about working in partnership with other agencies as well as the schools and local companies, to increase the use of seatbelts and in doing so, keeping our children safe," commented Sergeant Hill.

A survey recently carried out by Conwy Council Road Safety Officers found only six out of 51 child seats in a supermarket car park were fitted appropriately.

Road Safety GB recently launched a nationwide scheme aimed at educating parents and carers on how to install child restraints properly through workshops and guides.

Posted by Sarah Bailey