Concerns over use of car seats

The issue has prompted the launch of the ‘strap me, not wrap me’ campaign in health clinics and children’s centres across Kirklees.

Staff nurse Dawn Moyhayuddin, of the Locala team, said: “New parents are keen to use baby car seats and usually they know how to fix them into their cars correctly, but seem unaware about the importance of using the straps.”

She intends to spread a consistent message, and said: “We are attempting to raise awareness about the correct use of baby car seats, as incorrect use could result in serious or fatal injuries, and we aim to prevent this.”

Nurses at local immunisation clinics have noticed that the amount of infants attending, who are not correctly fastened into cars seats, has become increasingly common, currently at an average of 10 children a month.

Coun Cathy Scott, Kirklees cabinet member for Streetscene, said: “Our campaign aims to highlight the dangers of babies not being properly restrained, but also to offer help, advice and show parents how to fit their baby car seat correctly.”