MORE than half of all child car seats were found to be fitted incorrectly during recent checks carried out across Ayrshire.

The alarming discovery was made as officers from Police Scotland, North Ayrshire Road Safety and the Ayrshire Roads Alliance carried out roadside checks in Kilwinning, Kilmarnock and Ayr between 22-24 November.

Over the three days, a total of 96 child car seats, including booster cushions, were checked.

Some 46 seats were found to be fitted correctly, but a staggering 50 seats were fitted incorrectly – with 13 having major faults.

Among the major faults was the suitability of seats for the age of the child, particularly with children being too young for their seat.

Other issues included seats having incorrect seat belt routing.

The joint initiative was the first in a series with the next set of safety checks set for early 2018.

Inspector Greg Dinnie from Ayrshire Road Policing, Police Scotland, said: “First and foremostly this is about the safety of children, and ensuring that in the event of a sudden stop or collision, the car seat is capable of providing the child with adequate protection from unnecessary harm.

“At this stage the partnership approach demonstrated here is one of education, help and support and I would urge all persons travelling with children to ensure all car seats are fitted correctly and are age and size appropriate.”

Colin Kay, North Ayrshire Road Safety Officer, said: “To ensure your child is protected while in the car, it is vital that their car seat is appropriate for their age and is correctly fitted to the vehicle.

“There’s lots of advice online that sets out how to choose the best car seat for children of different ages and sizes and if any parents want some more support, just get in touch with your local road safety team who’ll be more than happy to help out.

“Due to the success of this pilot, we will be back out again in 2018 – so keep an eye out.”

Barbara Rae, Ayrshire Roads Alliance Road Safety Officer, said: “When it comes to selecting your child’s car seat, it’s simply a case of ‘try before you buy’. Purchase your seat from a reputable retailer.”

More information on child car seats can be found online along with a two minute guide on how to carry out your own safety check.

Visit: www.northayrshire.goodeggsafety.com www.eastayrshire.goodeggsafety.com www. southayrshire.goodeggsafety. com or contact your local Road Safety team on 01294 310000