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In 2018 nearly 70% of car seats we checked at our Child Car Seat Clinics were incorrectly fitted or condemned, and from the total of 149 seats checked in 2019, over 78% were incorrectly fitted or condemned.

Are you aware of the dangers of babies and children travelling in cars while inadequately restrained? With previous county figures revealing that a shocking 70% of all baby and child car seats checked across Kent are incorrectly fitted,our awareness campaign highlights the dangers and provides advice on anything which puts a child at risk while travelling in a car.

KCC’s Road Safety team usually runs free car seat clinics to give advice and check the safety and condition of car seats, particularly in areas such as incorrectly fitted harnesses but unfortunately these are on hold due to Covid-19.

Sometimes a minor adjustment to the harness can mean the difference between life and death.

Remember a damaged seat or one that has been involved in a crash or stored for several years in the loft, may not be up to the job. A previous seat may now not be compatible with a different car. Has your child grown out of their seat?

Also remember the law says any child under 12 or 135mm in height must travel on a booster seat which has a back fitted.

Check out the KCC Road Safety Facebook page for more information.

KCC Road Safety has created short videos showing some of the major problems found when checking child car seats.

For example, do you know what Buckle Crunch is?

We recommend getting advice from retailers and vehicle manufacturers if you have concerns. Always check with the retailer that they have trained fitters available to demonstrate the seat in the car before purchasing (when this is possible). Use our handy information form to fill out and take with you to your retailer when buying a new car seat.

Remember the safe restraining of children in vehicles is vital to help save lives. Failure to comply with current car seat safety laws carries up to a £500 penalty.

More details on Kent Road Safety here