The Alberta RCMP is giving tips to keep children safe inside vehicles as colder temperatures bring hazardous conditions to local roads.
According to an RCMP news release, for infants under two years old, police recommend using a rear-facing car seat until they weigh over 10 kilograms or 22 pounds.
For six-year-olds that weigh more than 18 kilograms, booster seats are safest, which help elevate children and ensure they sit comfortably against the seat.
“As a driver, it’s your responsibility to ensure all passengers are properly secured,” said Sergeant Darrin Turnbull with the RCMP. “It’s important that all children are in the appropriate seat type for their size, and that it is correctly installed. This can make a huge difference in reducing the risk of injury during travel.”
Police also provided other tips, such as discouraging purchasing used car seats and ensuring booster seats have a Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards sticker.
Drivers can also perform the "inch test" by trying to move the seat around at the base. If the seat is installed properly, it shouldn't move more than an inch in any direction.
All child car seats and booster seats must also be installed in the back of the vehicle, and never in the passenger seat.
Police says as winter arrives, snowy and icy roads will lead to an increase in collisions across the province.