Safe Motoring with Your Child – Additional Safety Tips When Driving with Children

• Drive Safe-Tips/Guides-Safety

Ensuring the safety of children in cars is of course, of utmost importance. In addition to the commonly known safety measures like using seat belts and child restraints, there are several other precautions that parents and caregivers can take to keep their children safe while travelling.

Here are some additional safety tips to consider:

1. Secure loose objects 

Loose objects in the car can become dangerous projectiles in the event of a sudden stop or collision. Make sure that all items such as toys, books, groceries, etc. are properly stowed away to prevent them from flying around and potentially causing harm.

2. Keep windows locked

Children are naturally curious, and they may be tempted to play with the window controls. To prevent accidents, keep the power window switches locked when children are in the car. This will help avoid incidents where children accidentally roll down the windows or get their fingers trapped.

3. Teach road safety

Educating children about road safety from an early age is vital. Teach them about the importance of crossing the road at designated crosswalks, looking both ways before crossing, and obeying traffic signals. Reinforce the concept of holding an adult's hand while walking near traffic and the dangers of running into the street without supervision.

4. Use child proof door locks:

Child proof door locks can prevent children from opening car doors from the inside. This safety feature ensures that children cannot accidentally open a door while the vehicle is in motion, reducing the risk of them falling out of the car or exiting in an unsafe location.

5. Avoid leaving children unattended

Never leave children unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period. Cars can heat up quickly, even on cooler days, leading to heatstroke and other life-threatening conditions. Make it a habit to check the backseat before locking the vehicle to ensure no child is left behind.

6. Create a Safe Environment

Make the car a safe and comfortable environment for children. Ensure that car seats and booster seats are properly installed and appropriate for the child's age, weight, and height. Adjust the temperature and ventilation to provide a comfortable atmosphere, and consider using sunshades to protect children from direct sunlight.

7. Minimise distractions

Distractions while driving can compromise everyone's safety. Avoid engaging in activities that divert your attention from the road, such as using mobile phones, eating, or applying makeup. By staying focused, you can better anticipate and respond to any potential hazards.

8. Practice safe loading and unloading

When loading and unloading children from the car, always use designated areas such as parking lots or curbside spaces. Teach children to wait until the vehicle has come to a complete stop before exiting, and ensure that they exit on the side away from traffic.

9. Be a role model

Children often learn by observing their parents and caregivers. Set a good example by always wearing your seat belt, using turn signals, and following traffic rules. By demonstrating responsible and safe behavior, you encourage children to do the same.

Conclusion

Child safety in cars is a shared responsibility. By implementing these additional safety tips and being vigilant, parents and caregivers can help ensure that children are protected while travelling.

Supa Quick is dedicated to safety on the road. Keep yourself and your family as safe as possible while driving – visit a Supa Quick near you for a free vehicle safety check.

Also read:

Young Drivers Parenting Tips

Guide to Child Car Seats, Sizes, and Ages

Teaching Road Safety at School and at Home

Young Drivers Parenting Tips

The Importance of Traffic Signs for Road Safety