Scotland’s biggest in-car partnership launches major campaign

A major in-car child safety initiative to increase awareness of the dangers of ill-fitted, inappropriate car seats was launched across Scotland in early August.

In 2001, 948 children were killed or injured in cars on Scotland’s roads – and many of these deaths and injuries could have been avoided if the children had been properly restrained.

A consortium of key public and private sector organisations - including the Scottish Road Safety Campaign (SRSC), the Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland (ACPOS) and the Arnold Clark Group – is behind the four week campaign to address this issue. The campaign also has the support and involvement of RoSPA, local authorities and police forces across the country – making it Scotland’s biggest in-car child safety partnership.

"In earlier research 47 per cent of parents said they were ‘not confident’ of their ability to fit child seats and yet 87 per cent of these had bought their seats from retailers," says Fiona Murray, director of SRSC. "Parents should insist on trying out the seat in their car before buying as not all seats fit all cars.

"We are producing 10,000 Good Seat Guides for parents who want to know what they should be looking for and to help them feel more confident about asking for advice from retailers."

In addition to the public education programme, the police will be enforcing the law in relation to ‘carrying in a dangerous manner’ in an effort to drive home the road safety message. Penalties include fines up to £2,500 and penalty points.

"Public awareness of in-car safety issues is essential if we are to continue to see a reduction in our casualty figures," said Ricky Gray, assistant chief constable of Strathclyde Police. "All eight Scottish police forces will play their part to educate motorists and to enforce the law in relation to seatbelt safety - not just during this campaign but every day of the year."

Special ‘Good Egg’ in-car child safety guides are available by ringing 0870 242 3232 and there is also a campaign website, www.protectchild.co.uk.

Around 30 car clinics, where parents can have their child seats checked, have also been established across Scotland. Details of dates and venues can be found on the website.

The campaign also features a radio commercial telling the genuine story of an eight-month baby who was propelled through a car windscreen on a ‘short trip’.

Further information about this initiative can be obtained from Anne Diack, SRSC, 0131 472 9200.