TAC backs a fitting solution to keep kids safe

17 Nov 2015

The Transport Accident Commission is steering parents with young children to a new Kidsafe Victoria website after research revealed most child restraints were not fitted properly.

The TAC-funded Kidsafe Find a Fitter website directs parents to experienced child restraint fitters in a bid to reduce injuries and deaths caused by incorrect installation.

TAC road safety manager Liz Waller said research showed 70 per cent of child restraints were not fitted correctly.

"A lot of parents think that their child is properly restrained but the harnesses are actually going across the child's neck instead of their shoulders or across their waists instead of their hips," Ms Waller said.

"This can result in serious internal injuries in the event of an impact."

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare figures show transport injuries are the most common cause of child injury death. They also are the second most common cause of injury-related hospital admissions for children between birth and 14 years of age.

"We know that children are seven times more likely to suffer injuries in a car crash if their restraint hasn't been fitted correctly so it is extremely important that parents ensure that restraints have been installed by an experienced fitter," Ms Waller said.

Ms Waller said the Kidsafe Find a Fitter website helped connect parents across Victoria with experienced fitters in their local areas.

"These fitters are all required to meet stringent criteria before they are allowed to be part of the Find a Fitter scheme," she said.

Kidsafe acting chief executive Jason Chambers said different restraints were required for children, according to age and size.

"Placing children in the wrong restraint or using an adult seatbelt when they should be using a booster seat, also increases the likelihood of the child being injured in a crash," Mr Chambers said.  

By clicking onto kidsafevic.com.au/find-a-fitter, parents can find a list of their nearest approved fitters by simply entering their suburb or postcode.

"All parents want the peace of mind that comes with knowing their child is as safe as they can be and this resource can help them achieve that," Mr Chambers said.

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