Alberta RCMP educates motorists on child seat safety

The Alberta RCMP wants to ensure you and your little ones are properly buckled up this November.

Parents and caretakers are responsible for ensuring young passengers’ commutes are as safe as can be, that is why it is crucial motorists understand the importance of child safety seats. When used correctly, these restraint systems can save lives and reduce injury.

Below is child safety seat information you should know:

• Children under six years of age, weighing 18 kg (40 lb) or less, must be properly restrained in a car seat (Government of Alberta, 2021).
• 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 (Government of Alberta, 2021).
• A child safety seat must have a Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards sticker on it to prove it meets national safety standards (Government of Alberta, 2021).
• 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 serious injury or fatality by approximately 60-70% (Government of Alberta, 2021).

“Children are some of our most vulnerable road users and they depend on parents and caregivers to keep them safe as vehicle passengers. Last year, Alberta RCMP issued 232 tickets to motorists for failing to properly restrain young passengers,” says Supt. Gary Graham, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services. “Our children rely on us. Take the time to learn how to secure them properly and keep them safe.”