Keeping kids safe in the car doesn’t have to break the bank

When we look into the adorable and sometimes chocolate covered faces of our little ones, it can make us melt. And as we do, a million thoughts can rush through our heads about all the things we need to do to ensure our kids are safe and secure—at home, at play and in the car.

When it comes to transporting kids in the car, the new BCAA Child Passenger Safety Survey shows that many of us think we need to spend big dollars on high-end expensive car seats and splurge on accessories and other gadgets to keep our kids safe.

But what if we told you that we don’t have to take the most expensive route in order to keep our most precious cargo safe in the car? BCAA Child Passenger Safety Educators recommend: keep it simple and focus on getting the basics right.

Here’s what’s key to keeping our kids safe when travelling in a car.

1. Become well-educated on child passenger safety.

Use a variety of information sources which include your car seat instructions, vehicle owner’s manual, Transport Canada and BCAA’s Child Passenger Safety online resource, which offers a wealth of information and instructional videos. You can also call 1.877.247.5551 to speak to a Child Passenger Safety Educator or we can connect you to one in your community.

2. Understand how to choose the correct seat for your child’s age and size.

Choose a child car seat that meets age, height and weight requirements and complies with Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS). Ensure it fits your child and car.

3. Learn and practice how to correctly install your car seat and secure your child in it.

Research shows that a properly installed child car seat reduces the risk of fatality by 71% and the risk of serious injury by 67% (Transport Canada).

4. Avoid keeping loose items or detachable accessories inside the car.

Items often provided to children while in the car such as toys or an iPad, along with accessories which can possibly become detached such as a monitoring mirror can potentially become projectiles during a crash or sudden stop.