Life is short and we never know what will happen next, while riding a bus or driving your car. It is always nice to play safe most of the time for your family and friends, who are expecting you to come home safe. It doesn’t really matter how fast you reach your destination, what matters are the life you put in your hands, especially when you bring your kids with you.
December 16, 2011, it was my daughter’s 6th birthday; we went out to celebrate. It was an hour long drive away from home. My husband has some few drinks so I decided to drive the car. My two kids age 11 and 5 were sleeping at the back seat tired from the activities we had all day, while I and my husband are talking. On our way home hitting 100km an hour speed, I tipped off the road’s shoulder and zigzagged avoiding the path holes due to some roads under construction. I decided to hit the piled yard beside the road and stopped just a few feet away from the electric post. I thanked God we’re safe but the kids were horrified. I cried seeing my kids crying and husband in shock!
I was so thankful that we were wearing seatbelts at the time. I realized how important it is, that no matter how tired and anxious you are to drive and head your way home or to your destination, always bear in mind that above all, safety comes first. Buckling up on each and every ride is the most essential thing a family can do to remain safe in the car. It will only take a little of your time but will save your life from unforeseen circumstances.
Driving with kids is such a big responsibility no matter how short the trip is or how careful you are when driving. First of all, never put your kids on the front seat, it’s a big no! Kids below thirteen years of age have to sit at the back seat for safety purpose. Kids below three years old must have an appropriate car seat. This is very important since at their age, seatbelts are usually big and won’t fit them. If there’s no car seat, adjust the seatbelt to fit them. Have your kids sit straight when using seat belts, we all know they want to slouch, move around and play inside the car. Remember to never let them put the shoulder belt below their arms or behind their back, most children do this because it irritates them. Explain to them the importance of wearing seat and shoulder belt. Let them know that a little bump may injure them one way or another if they won’t buckle up. Of course parents need to be their role model. Show them that you care for them and that you are a responsible parent.
Accidents happen when we least expect it. Buckle up your seatbelts and drive your way home to your family safely!
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