What do I need to do to ensure my child's safety...

What do I need to do to ensure my child's safety in the car?

Use only an approved restraint that is appropriate for the child’s weight and size.
Use restraints which have been approved to the latest standard, (UNECE Regulation 44.04)-which are designed to fit in newer cars and have increased protection for your child.
Check that the car seat fits the model of your car before purchasing. Ask the retailer to fit the seat before purchasing.
Opt for a car seat that adheres to the ISOFIX system if your car is fitted with the required anchorage points; always check the vehicle handbook.
Ensure that the car seat is fitted securely and always follow the instructions.
Check the harness each time your child uses the seat to make sure the harness is comfortably fitted.
Fit restraints in the back seat of the car where possible.
Explain to your child about how important it is to remain firmly strapped in during every journey.

Don’t

Carry children without restraints, regardless of how short the journey.
Fit a rear-facing car seat in the front seat of a car that has an active passenger airbag as this is extremely dangerous should the airbag deploy.
Buy a used or second hand car seat, unless you know its history and it comes with a set of instructions.
Buy a car seat without first checking that it is compatible with your car.
Use a car seat that has been involved in a car crash.
Allow a child to sit on your knee while travelling.
Allow children to climb out of their belts or release seat belt buckles.
Make any modifications to child seats or buckles as this could cause serious problems should an accident occur.
Use a cushion in place of a booster cushion as it won’t be secure.
Leave your child unattended for any length of time in a car

More questions

What do I need to know before choosing a car seat?

There are lots of questions that you need to take into consideration when choosing a car seat. We answer them here.

How do I fit a car seat?

Before fitting your child’s car seat, it is important to be aware that a rear facing car seat is safer when fitted in the back seat of the car but if there is no room in the back seat then they can be fitted in the front passenger seat. They should NEVER be fitted in the front passenger seat if there is an airbag on the passenger side. If the airbag is deflated, the child seat would be struck with great force.

How do I use a car seat?

Always set a good example for your child by wearing your seatbelt, it’s a lot easier to convince your child of the importance of car safety if they have your example to follow.

What are the legal requirements for children in car seats?

EU law states that all children must travel in a child seat, booster seat or booster cushion while in a car. It is the responsibility of the driver to ensure that all passengers are using seatbelts and where...

What do I need to do to ensure my child's safety in the car?

There are lots of things you need to take into consideration when choosing a car seat. Here are a list of our do's and don'ts

My children kick up a fuss when I make them where a seat belt. What should I do?

It’s very common for children to go through a difficult phase of not wanting to wear their child seat harness or safety belt. Children can try to slip out of the child harness or release the buckle during car trips which is a source of concern and frustration for parents.

How can I ensure my children's safety when driving to school?

All mums know how hectic getting the kids out the door and into school on time can be. However, when driving your kids to school, it’s vital that you take every precaution to ensure their safety.

What car seat is best for my premature baby?

Recent research has suggested that premature and low-birthweight babies can be susceptible to breathing difficulties if they remain in a car seat for extended periods of time.

Should I wear a seat belt when I'm pregnant?

During pregnancy it is still required by law to wear a safety belt, unless you have a medical reason to be exempt. If you are pregnant, there are some steps you should follow to ensure your seat belt is safely...