The Co-operators helps promote seat belt safety

Taking aim at statistics that show eight out of 10 child car seats are improperly installed, The Co-operators has partnered with the Infant & Toddler Safety Association (ITSA) to bring a series of free car seat clinics to a number of communities throughout Canada.
ITSA is a volunteer-run registered charity. Established in 1980, it has been recognized nationally for its leadership role in developing and delivering car seat training programs, developing car seat inspection clinics and in supporting individuals and community groups.
The initiative of ITSA and The Co-operators is called ‘Buckle Up Bears.’
“Our Buckle Up Bears inspectors have inspected thousands of child and booster seats and found that the majority of the problems could be solved by regularly checking and adjusting the seats,” said The Co-operators president and CEO Kathy Bardswick. “With vacation season just around the corner, parents and caregivers are reminded to take the time to check that their children’s seats are providing the protection they need.”
To help keep kids safe, Trained inspectors check child car seats and booster seats, and help educate drivers on their proper use.
“Installing children’s seats correctly is only the first step to protecting your little ones,” said Valerie Lee, executive director of the ITSA. “As children grow, as bulky snow suits are replaced by t-shirts, their seats must be adjusted. Taking a few minutes to inspect child seats and make the necessary adjustments could save a kid’s life.”
Seat belts are designed for adults. When children reach 18 kg (40 lbs), they should transition to a booster seat. According to ITSA and The Co-operators, research indicates booster seats should be used until at least nine years of age.