As winter conditions set in across our provincial roads, the Alberta RCMP wants to ensure you and your little ones are properly buckled up.
During the colder months, there is an increased risk of motor vehicle collisions due to snow and ice – when used correctly, child car seats can save lives and reduce injury.
“It is the responsibility of parents and caretakers to ensure young passengers are correctly harnessed and buckled in,” says Supt. Rick Garner, Alberta Traffic Sheriffs. “That is why it is so important that motorists be educated on child seat safety.”
Did you know…
· By law, children under six years of age, weighing 18 kg (40 lb) or less, must be properly restrained in a car seat. (Alberta Seatbelts, 2014)
· It is highly recommended that children over the age of six use a booster seat until they reach the maximum height and weight (as stated by the manufacturer) and a seat belt fits properly. (Saferoads, 2020)
· A child safety seat must have a Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) sticker on it to prove it meets national safety standards. (Alberta Health Services, 2019)
· It is not recommended that you purchase a pre-owned car seat as they may be damaged, recalled, or expired, and may not meet current safety standards. (Alberta Health Services, 2019)
· When used properly, child safety seats can reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71 per cent and the risk of serious injury by 67 per cent. (Government of Alberta, 2020)
“Last November, Alberta RCMP issued 12 tickets to motorists for failing to properly restrain young passengers,” says Supt. Gary Graham, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services.
“Your children look to you to keep them safe on the roads – always take the time to buckle them up and make their safety your priority.”
For more traffic safety information, follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and Twitter @RCMPAlberta.
-Submitted