Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among children and youth.  Most of these deaths could have been prevented if the child had been properly secured in the appropriate child car seat.  When used correctly, child car seats can reduce the risk of death by 71% for infants under age 1, and 54% for children aged 1 to 4.   It is mandatory for anyone who transports children to ensure they are properly secured in either: an infant seat, child car seat, or booster seat.  Booster seats are required for children who have outgrown a child car seat (child is over 40 Lbs.) but are too small for a regular seatbelt.  A lap and shoulder combination belt must be used for all booster seats.  The penalty for a seatbelt or child restraint offence is a $110 fine plus two demerit points.

The OPP, in partnership with the Espanola Health Unit and the Ministry of Transportation held a child car seat clinic on Thursday, September 3^rd, 2009 at the Espanola OPP Detachment located on Highway 17, McKerrow. 

You’re not sure if your child’s car seat should be installed rear-facing or forward-facing?  Is your car seat installed properly?  Where is the safest place to install it in my vehicle?  How do I know if there is a recall on my car seat?  Do I need a locking clip and/or need to have it tethered?  Is my child ready for a booster seat or should he/she remain in a car seat?  I didn’t realize that car seats have an expiry date!

If you would like to know the answers to these or have any other questions and/or wish to have your child car seat(s) checked and installed by certified technicians, FREE of charge, please call (705) 222-9202 to book an appointment.  Walk-ins are also be accepted.

For the five seconds, or less, it takes to fasten your seatbelt or securing your child, that one quick and easy action could mean the difference between life and death…..besides, it’s the law!!!