RACT is getting on board Road Safety Week – to share the importance of suitable and properly-fitted child restraints.
According to the organisation’s research, correctly fitted child booster seats and baby capsules can reduce the risk of serious injury – or death – in the event of an accident, by up to 70 per cent.
RACT Chief Experience Officer Stacey Pennicott said many people aren’t aware that the restraints actually have expiry dates.
“Outdated or damaged child car seats may no longer provide the necessary level of protection, putting children at risk,” Ms Pennicott said.
“We encourage everyone to regularly check the condition of their child restraint seats and dispose of them responsibly when they are no longer suitable for use.”
RACT advises checking the following to ensure your child’s seat is safe:
- That it has an Australian Standard AS/NZS 1754 sticker.
- That it’s not older than 10 years by checking the year of manufacture sticker, or by looking at the dials embossed within the plastic shell.
- Inspect for wear and tear, frayed straps, and ensure the buckle clicks into place securely.
- If your seat has been in a crash, the damage may not be obvious. If you’re aware that it has, don’t use it.
- Check that the shoulder harness correctly fits your child. The harness should sit directly on top or slightly above your child’s shoulders.
