Free Child Car Seat Checks Return to Wicklow Next Week

53% of car seats checked were incorrectly fitted, and needed adjustments to make them safe,

More than half of child car seats checked by the Road Safety Authority aren't fitted correctly.  

A stark finding, but one parents and guardians in Wicklow can act on. The RSA's 'Check it Fits' is back on the road, with county visits earmarked for next week.

The free service comes to Wicklow on Monday 28th and Tuesday 29th September.

Figures from the service show 53% of child car seats checked nationwide were incorrectly fitted. While some needed a slight adjustment to make them safe, almost a quarter needed major adjustments.

The RSA says car seats can look simple to install, but it is easy to get it wrong.  It also warms a poorly fitted seat can lead to serious or fatal injury in a collision.

Peace Of Mind

Ron Richardson of the RSA says "Having a correctly fitted car seat is a simple measure parents, grandparents and guardians can take to ensure children are safe while travelling by car."

How the service works

Cost: Free of charge

Booking: Walk-in service, no appointment needed

Hours: 10.00am to 5.30pm

Duration: 10 to 15 minutes per check

Location 28th Sept: Babycare International, The Murrough

Location 29th Sept: SuperValu Bray, Castle Street Shopping Centre

The RSA advises the following:

• Use your child car seat correctly on every journey
• Check the fitting regularly or have it rechecked by the Check it Fits team.
• Seasonal changes matter - a seat fitted in Summer may need the harness adjusted as the weather changes and children wear different clothing.

For more information, visit RSA Check It Fits