Many families in the UK take long trips in cars with their young ones each year. When the weather is good we find it easier and cheaper to travel to somewhere local rather than going overseas. Our trips sometime takes us to a Theme Park or the Sea Side. Especially those of us with young children we find it more convenient to take our own Car rather than the Coach or Train.
Using our own Car means the responsibility the transport is solely ours. As adults we are responsible for the safety of the child or children travelling with us. This means measures must be taken before the journey start and during the journey to make sure it is a safe and enjoyable one.
There are different guidelines depending on the age of the child but there are general ones that you should know about.
If the child will be using a child seat make sure that it an approved child seat and the recommended size for the child’s age and height. Also make sure that the seat is placed in the correct position. If the child seat is placed in the front seat of the car make sure measures are taken regarding the vehicles airbag, otherwise he/she should be placed in the back seat.
The driver is responsible for making sure that everyone is properly secured in the vehicle.
Parents should not teach their child how to undo their own safety belt, because you can never be sure that the child is securely fastened, and only the parent, or another adult, should undo and fasten the child’s safety belt.
Do not place large and heavy objects in the car, eg on the back seat or on the parcel shelf, because they may be thrown forwards in a collision and injure the passengers. These objects should be stored in the car boot.
Try and keep everyone calm in the car. Shouting or any other loud noises may disturb the driver and create unnecessary danger.
Children can get bored easily try and provide activity that will avoid them leaving their seat or undoing their seat belt.