Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
RCMP Traffic Services, Amherst Police Department, Amherst Recreation Department, Maggie’s Place, with support from Child Safety Link, are reminding motorists of the importance of car seat safety, every ride, every time.
On December 13, RCMP Traffic Services and community partners conducted a traffic check stop in Amherst in efforts to help make the roads safer for our youngest, and most vulnerable passengers. Out of 36 vehicles checked with car and booster seats, only one was fully compliant with no issues related to the position, straps or safety of the child.
Nova Scotia has mandatory booster seat legislation; children must weigh a minimum of 40 pounds before moving to a booster seat and they must continue to use a booster seat until they are 4 feet 9 inches tall or nine years old.
“Motor vehicle collisions are a leading cause of death and serious injury in children,” explains Katherine Hutka of Child Safety Link. “When used correctly, a safe car seat or booster seat reduces the risk of fatal injury by up to 71%.”
Below are Child Safety Link’s “Top 5 for a Safe Ride” tips:
- Make sure your child’s harness is snug.
- Install your seat tightly to the vehicle.
- Always use the top tether on a forward-facing car seat.
- Don’t rush your child into a booster seat.
- Keep your child in a booster seat for longer.
Drivers can expect to see RCMP officers and focused check points on roadways across the province anytime of year, but especially over the next several weeks.
For more information on how to install your car seat and safely buckling your child, visit: https://childsafetylink.ca/car-seat-safety.