Seat belts

When restraining your child, always check that the seat belt is on properly. The lap part of the cross diagonal belt should be pulled tight, as to prevent the child from "submarining". The red button of the stalk should be visible so if in an emergency, the seat belt can be released quickly. For older children, try to use third stage or booster seats. Make sure the webbing of the seat belt does not twist. This can be like a rope on a child if badly twisted. Finally only use your lap belt if you have to, lap belts are known to cause spinal and abdominal injuries. They can cause injury if used incorrectly. A lap belt should fit across the hips, on the lap and not across the stomach. It is better to use a lap belt than nothing at all. There is an alternative to lap belts which can be fitted Autosafe can fit a cross diagonal centre seat belt in 95% of cars on the road. This is a retractable seat belt which has a height adjuster which enables the belt to be used for adults or children. See Centre seat belt.

Height Adjuster (Younger Child)

Height Adjuster (Older Child)