Always carry children in the appropriate child restraint system.
• Use infant carriers for babies under 20 and six months old.
• Child seats for toddlers, i.e. when the baby is able to sit on his own, weighs between 20 —40 lbs (six months to 4 years).
• Booster seats or booster cushions should be used when the child has passed 40 lbs, from 4 — 8 years old or when the child's head is higher that the back of the child seat.
Make sure that your vehicle and tyres are in good condition.
Over-inflation reduces the shock absorbing property of tyres an increases their risk of being damaged on impact. It reduces the contact area between road and tyre and affects the vehicles steering and cornering ability. Over inflation as well as under inflation can cause "blowout"
Tips for proper tyre use/care
. Keep tyres at the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer
. Check tyre pressure at least once per fortnight when the lyres are cold. If the pressure is down more than 35kpa/5 psi(Pounds per square inch) take the tyre to a repair expert.
. Fit tyres of the same type, size and ply rating
. Front-wheel drive cars have increased the importance of Regular tyre rotation. This practice will maximize overall thread life and "even-out" front and rear wheel patterns.
. Align and balance wheels every 20,000 kilometers or at least once per year.
. On the discovery of vibrations in the steering as speed is increased, take your vehicle to the alignment specialist to diagnose and rectify the problem.
Practice defensive driving
Defensive driving is a tactical approach in which the driver expects the unexpected and remains attentive to the actions of other road users, to ensure that nothing is taken for granted. Key factors that promote good defensive driving practices are:
. Planning - deciding your destination points before hand and the route you intend to take.
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