The Bonnyville RCMP wants to ensure you and your little ones are properly buckled up.
Drivers are responsible for ensuring all passengers under 16 years of age are properly restrained, that is why it is crucial motorists understand the rules and regulations of child safety seats. When used correctly, these restraint systems can save lives and reduce injury.
From birth until two years of age:
- A child is safest in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least two years old or reach the maximum weight and height limit for rear-facing seats.
From two years of age until six years of age or weighing 40lbs:
- Children under six years of age, weighing 18 kg (40 lbs) or less, must be properly restrained in a forward-facing car seat.
Children over six years of age or weighing more than 40lbs:
- 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. Each vehicle is different, so make sure to follow the guidelines as per the vehicle’s manufacturer.
- If placing the booster seat on a seat without a headrest, make sure to use a high-back booster seat to provide head and neck support.
All drivers should note:
- Always install all child safety seats, including booster seats, in the rear seat.
- A child safety seat must have a Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards sticker on it to prove it meets national safety standards.
- Confirm whether the car seat should be installed using a universal anchorage system (UAS) or a seat belt.
- 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.
The Bonnyville RCMP and Alberta Sheriffs will be hosting an educational Child Seat Check stop in the parking lot of their Detachment on Thursday, November 30th from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you have kids in child seats you are encouraged to drop in and have them checked out to make sure they are properly installed.
“When used correctly, child safety restraints can reduce fatal injuries and save lives. Young passengers rely on adults to ensure they are properly buckled up when out on our roadways. Last year, Alberta RCMP issued 86 tickets to motorists for failing to properly restrain young passengers, and 114 tickets for not using a child restraint at all,” said Cst. Kysrell Paler of Bonnyville RCMP.
“Our precious cargo rely on us to ensure their safety. Take the time to learn how to secure them properly and keep them safe.”