More than one in 10 children under the age of five have escaped from their car seats, according to a 2022 survey by Which?. The survey, which included 1,883 parents, highlighted the importance of keeping children secure while travelling.
Which? advises parents to pull over safely if a child escapes their car seat while the vehicle is in motion. On motorways, drivers should exit completely rather than stopping on the hard shoulder or in an emergency layby. Once stopped, the engine should be turned off and the handbrake applied.
Proper harness fit is crucial, allowing for up to two fingers of 'give' flat against the child's body. Shoulder straps should be at or just below the shoulders for rear-facing seats, and at or just above for forward-facing seats. Puffy coats and snowsuits are not recommended as they can compress in a crash, creating space for a child to slip out.
Parents are also cautioned about anti-escape devices. Car seat manufacturers advise against using devices not crash-tested with their specific car seat brand and model. Establishing rules, rewarding good behaviour, and keeping children occupied can also help prevent escapes. Additionally, child locks on rear passenger doors should always be engaged.