Plunket: Keep Kiwi kids safe on roads

Ahead of the school holidays, Plunket is encouraging New Zealand families to think about their kids’ safety while they’re on the roads – whether you’re taking a long journey, or a short trip.

“Enjoy time with your children over the school holidays, and remember everyone has to be properly buckled up – whether you’re taking your family on a long trip for a holiday, or driving down the road to the supermarket”, says Sue Campbell, Plunket’s National Child Safety Advisor.

“If it means taking two vehicles to transport everyone, please do it, the consequences of an unrestrained adult or child in a crash can be devastating.

“Car crashes are one of the biggest dangers to New Zealand children. We have one of the highest child road fatality rates in the OECD. Around five children are killed or injured every week on our roads.

“The simple truth is that car seats save lives. Children need to be buckled into a car seat every time they are riding in the car, no matter how short the journey. Babies need to be in a car seat from their very first ride”.

Sue says there are several key things to remember as you travel:

• Keep children safe in their car seats and boosters – the back seat is the safest place.

• Allow time for stops to let everyone stretch their legs, it may take a bit longer to get to your destination but it’s worth it.

• Take along some books, games and songs to keep children occupied.

The law requires all children aged 7 and under to be in car seats appropriate for their age and size. It is recommended that you keep a child under 148cm tall in a booster seat to keep them safe.

Plunket recommends getting expert assistance from a child restraint technician for a check to ensure that your child's car seat fits your vehicle and is installed correctly. They can also advise about the best car seat for your child’s age, height and weight, and one that is best suited to your car.

Child restraint technicians are available through Plunket Car Seat Services, and at a number of other hire outlets or retailers.

For information on a Plunket car seat service near you visit www.plunket.org.nz

ENDS

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