Holden Introduces “Buckle Up Kids” Program
Holden is expanding its Community Support Program by reaching out to Victoria’s parents and young children. Its new initiative, “Buckle Up Kids” specifically addresses the lack of understanding and proper use of child safety restraints. While most parents are responsive to restraining babies safely in the back seat of their vehicles, as many as 35%-75% of children over the age of two are not properly protected. The sad results have made transport-related accidents the leading cause of death and injury in children age 0–16 years in this country. Holden wants to make a difference.
TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN
• Little ones can’t sit as long in one spot and need “stretch breaks” every 2–3 hours. Choose an area where they can run around and really stretch their legs. This is also a great time for snacks or a planned picnic lunch.
• Surprise bags are packed full of small toys, books, games and art projects that are new and gathered just for the trip. In fact, only allowing them to be used in the vehicle will keep them interesting longer for your little ones.
• Bottled water is the best drink for allowing in the vehicle because spills are easy to clean up and it’s sugar-free and naturally healthy. Keep snacks in portion-size zip-lock baggies for less mess.
• Classical or soft instrumental music has a calming effect when everyone needs to relax a bit.
The goal of the “Buckle Up Kids” program is to reduce unnecessary childhood deaths and injuries by educating parents, grandparents and caregivers about proper installation and fitting of vehicle child restraints. Many parents simply do not realise that a young child is over four times more likely to be injured when harnessed into an adult seat belt instead of a properly fitted child restraint. Because many families with more than one vehicle share restraints, it is important that each caregiver know how to properly re-install and fit the equipment each time. Professional fitters will be on hand to train interested adults as well as offer free checking of restraints for all vehicles, including those not directly associated with Holden.
The “Buckle Up Kids” program will be available through kindergartens, childcare centres, primary schools and Holden dealers in the Victoria area. It is also available upon request to local community organisations. Application can be made online at www.holden.com.au/buckleupkids.
If you’re in the market for a great family car – consider some of the most popular models from Suzuki, Holden or Mitsubishi dealers – Sydney has a number of select areas – visit www.heartland.com.au to learn more.
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