Keeping you and your family safe in the car

With days getting shorter and weather conditions getting worse, we want to make sure you and your family are safe on the roads this winter.

Whether it’s a long road trip to visit relatives for the holidays, or a short drive to the shops for some mince pies, the safety of you and your child should be your number one priority. That’s why we’ve put together these top tips to consider when you’re getting behind the wheel this winter!

Rushing isn't worth the risk

We all know what it’s like - you’ve got a toddler on your hip, a piece of toast in your free hand, and you’re shouting at your eldest to hurry up or else they’ll be late for school. As a parent, time is rarely on your side. However, always priorotise car safety, you should never sacrifice the safety of you and/or your family for the sake of a few extra minutes.

Be sure to take the time to ensure your little ones are securely strapped into their car seats, check that your car is safe to drive, and take your time on the roads. No matter how late you are, it’s never worth the risk to take shortcuts on safety.

Outerwear is for outside

There’s nothing better than wrapping up in thick, cosy clothes and blankets in the winter months, but be careful when keeping your little one warm in the car. Big coats, jackets and outerwear can prevent your car seat from properly protecting your child in the event of an accident. Thick materials get in the way of your child’s seat belt, so their harness may be too loose, making it possible for them to slip out altogether.

Of course, you don’t want your child to get too cold, either! Don’t worry - there are much safer ways of keeping your little one warm without risking their safety. One option is to lay a regular blanket over the top of the car seat, making sure it isn’t in the way of the harness. You can also purchase footmuffs specifically designed for car seats.

Don’t buy your seat second-hand

When it comes to your child, only the best will do. A car seat is no different. If you buy your car seat second-hand - even if it’s made by a trustworthy brand - there’s no guarantee your child will be safe in it. You won’t know if it’s broken, if there are any defects, if anything has happened to it to reduce its performance… it’s better to not take the risk.

If you’re unsure which car seat to buy for the best car safety, check out our handy guide: ‘What Car Seat Should I get for my Child?’

Drive safe!

With frost on your windscreen, high winds in the air and ice on the ground, winter adds a whole host of new hazards to the road. It may go without saying, but your family’s safety in the car largely depends on the person behind the wheel. Avoid driving if you’re worried about particularly bad weather, but if you have to drive, take it easy and be extra cautious.

So this winter be sure to stay warm, be cautious on the roads, and drive safe!

For more tips and advice, check out our blog.