subject: Does Your Child Have A Car Seat [print this page] Does Your Child Have A Car Seat Does Your Child Have A Car Seat
I've travelled fairly extensively over the years and no matter where I go, including the UK, I am constantly astounded by the little value that parents and the like put on their child's life. What do I mean by that exactly? I mean the need for the child or children to be restrained in a car seat when travelling in a vehicle. Okay, I accept the UK is probably the safest that I have seen in general terms and the constant TV campaigns have finally hit home with most families, and British shops cater readily for children's safety. Those I have previously seen abusing their children by not providing nor insisting on a car seat (or sometimes use of rear seat belts) has been rare but it does still exist. In other countries, however, there is no such restraint nor regard for the safety of the children. In Spain where I currently reside I have seen children not only being carried in the front of the vehicle but on occasions, on the driver's lap! No this is not a norm in Spain either but it is more frequently seen here than in the UK. My most recent horrific observations have really centred around my travels to the Middle East, and more so, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Ok, it has to be understood that the UAE is made up of mainly expats many of which are southern Asian' Indians Pakistanis, and Bangladeshis and it is mainly nationalities that have the least regard for child safety when travelling in a vehicle. Often the cars are overcrowded with people in the first place but also no child seat ever seems to adorn the inside of their vehicles. Perhaps a direct reflection of what happens in their own indigenous countries. Why raise the point about the UAE in particular? Well, the UAE is not renowned for being the safest country when it comes to accidents. If you've ever driven there, you'll understand what I mean. With cars over and undertaking and travelling at 70 mph within 2 feet of your rear bumper it isn't surprising that almost every vehicle in the country has been hit (at least in the rear) at some stage. Involve a loose' child and you have a fatality on your hands! There is a plethora of great car seats available nowadays, all made with terrific safety features, unlike when my kids were that small to require such. I particularly like the Chico Key 2/3 Car seat Discovery. This Group 2 and 3 car seat has a modern look and has been designed to ensure maximum safety and comfort while travelling. The height of the backrest can be adjusted to no less than 8 different positions, while its width can be adjusted to follow your child's growth and always ensure maximum comfort at every age. Both adjustments are made simple by controls on the rear of the seat. The seat's features include: Suitable from 4 to 11 years approximately - Improved side impact protection for head, shoulders and sides of child. - The child is secured by using the car's own safety belts - The headrest/backrest adjust, also the side wings to allow the best fit and protection for the child 8 position backrest - Adjustable side wings - Back rest has 3 recline positions for child comfort and best seat fit - The seat and anatomical backrest ensures maximum comfort and optimal side support of shoulders and the head. - Seat fabric is breathable - The headrest has been specially designed to ensure that it doesn't interfere with the headrest of the car's seats - Removable, washable padded fabric seat covering Under the fabric seat covering there is a layer of polystyrene that acts as an absorber of energy in the event of an impact - Dimensions (LxWxH): 46 x 46 x 69 cm - Weight: 5.2 kg and at barely 120.00 it is worth it's weight in gold.
