Child Transportation Safety (Brief Version)
- ALI NAEIMI
- Jul 16, 2024
- 3 min read
Parents and guardians must ensure the safety of children while travelling. Car crashes remain a leading cause of death and injury for children in Canada, but proper use of car seats can significantly reduce the risk. This comprehensive guide will explore essential car seat safety tips, legal requirements, and practical advice for various travel scenarios.
Choosing the Right Car Seat
Selecting the appropriate car seat for your child depends on their height, weight, and age—not just their age alone. Always check these factors before purchasing or upgrading a car seat.
Types of Car Seats
1. Infant and Rear-Facing Seats
• Use from birth until the child outgrows the seat’s height or weight limits.
• Required by Canadian law for newborns and infants.
• Rear-facing seats are safest for children up to two, three, or even four years old, as long as they fit within the seat’s specifications.
2. Forward-Facing Seats
• Transition to forward-facing once the child exceeds the rear-facing seat’s limits and weighs at least 10 kg (22 lbs).
• Use a five-point harness until the child outgrows the seat, typically around 4–6 years of age.
3. Booster Seats
• Use after outgrowing a forward-facing seat and weighing at least 18 kg (40 lbs).
• Ensure the lap belt fits low on the hips, and the shoulder belt rests across the middle of the shoulder.
4. Seatbelt Alone
• Use only when the child is taller than 145 cm (4 ft. 9 in.) and passes the five-step seatbelt fit test.
Installing Your Car Seat Properly
• Read the car seat and vehicle manuals carefully before installation.
• Not all car seats fit all vehicles; you may need to try multiple models for the best fit.
• Look for the National Safety Mark sticker to ensure the seat meets Canadian safety standards.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
• Using non-approved accessories: Items like bunting bags, seatbelt adjusters, and mirrors can interfere with safety and are not crash-tested with car seats.
• Bulky clothing: Avoid dressing children in snowsuits or bulky gear while in a car seat. Instead, secure the straps and layer a blanket over the child.
Travel Scenarios
Airbags and Seating Position
• Children under 13 should always ride in the back seat for maximum safety.
• If a child must sit in the front seat, ensure airbags are turned off and the car seat is securely installed.
• Never place a rear-facing car seat in the front seat with an active airbag.
School Buses
• Most school buses use passive protection with high seat backs rather than seatbelts.
• For infants and toddlers, car seats with proper anchorage systems are recommended.
Air Travel
• While not legally required, Transport Canada recommends using car seats on airplanes.
• Booster seats cannot be used on airplanes due to the lack of shoulder belts.
Taxis and Motor Homes
• Canadian laws vary by province, and many do not require car seats in taxis. However, using a car seat is always recommended for safety.
• In motor homes, only forward-facing seats with proper tethering are safe for car seats. Side-facing seats are not suitable for children.
Using a Used Car Seat? Check This List First
1. Does it have the original manual?
2. Is it within its expiry date?
3. Does it have a National Safety Mark sticker?
4. Has it been involved in a crash? If yes, it should not be reused.
Expired or damaged seats should be destroyed—cut the harness and fabric to prevent reuse.
Conclusion
You can ensure your child's safety during every ride by understanding the rules, choosing the right car seat, and following proper installation practices. Always stay updated with local regulations and consult Transport Canada or your provincial authorities for the latest guidelines.
For more detailed information, check these resources:
Your child’s safety is worth every effort. Make every ride a safe one!
References:
1. For General Information:
• Child car seat safety. Available at Transport Canada
2. Legal Requirements and Recommendations:
• Provincial and federal transportation authorities in Canada. Specific legislation varies by province, e.g., Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation or British Columbia’s ICBC.
3. Air Travel Recommendations:
•Transport Canada. (Year). Flying with children: Car seats and safety tips. Available at: Transport Canada - Air Travel
4. School Buses and Motor Homes:
• Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA) and Transport Canada. (Year). Safety of children in school buses.
5. Car Seat Expiry and Damage Checks:
• Health Canada and Transport Canada guidelines on child safety seats.a
