Welcome to the first edition of Kidsafe Victoria’s e-news for 2018! This month we will be focusing on the ‘Never Leave Kids in Cars’ awareness campaign. We also have some information on the most recent product recalls and a tribute to Arthur Uren, a passionate Lion and long time supporter of Kidsafe Victoria. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for regular safety tips and updates – happy reading and stay safe!

Never Leave Kids in Cars Campaign

On Friday 5^th January, Kidsafe Victoria joined Jenny Mikakos MP, Ambulance Victoria and former Richmond champion Matthew ‘Richo’ Richardson, to launch  the Victorian Government’s Never Leave Kids in Cars campaign.

The campaign raises awareness of the dangers of leaving children unattended in cars, reminding parents their most precious valuables- their children- should never be left alone in the car.

New data revealed that Ambulance Victoria responded to 1,696 callouts across Victoria between September 2016 – August 2017, with the vast majority of cases involving toddlers and babies left in cars.

Even on mild days, the temperature inside a parked car can be 20-30 degrees hotter than the temperature outside. That means that on a typical summer day, the temperature inside a parked can can easily reach over 60 degrees in a matter of minutes, making it dangerous to leave children unattended even for a short period of time.

The campaign involves a number of resources, including a a clever video featuring Richo which demonstrates how a trip into the shops often takes longer than we think.

To view the campaign video and other related resources, please click here

SPASA Pool and Spa Expo + Outdoor Living: 2-4 February 2018

Visit the SPASA Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living to get expert advice and the best deals on swimming pools, spas, swim spas, pool equipment, heaters, automated cleaning systems, accessories and landscaping ideas to help create your dream backyard! Please click on the image above to find out more.

Vale Arthur Uren

From a young age, Arthur Uren dedicated himself to serving his community with hard work, energy and enthusiasm. He joined the police force in 1972 where he served for over 23 years. He then joined St John’s Ambulance Service.

In 1980 Arthur joined the Lions Club of Melton where he remained dedicated and held numerous positions over the next 37 years, including District Governor and Secretary of the Lions Crimewatch Committee. During his lifetime, Arthur received countless district and international awards for his community work.

Arthur, together with Stan Falloon, was instrumental in the development of the partnership between Kidsafe Victoria and The Lions Crimewatch Committee, particularly around the installation of ‘do not leave children’ in car signs and messaging at a grassroots level. His dedication and commitment to the community will be missed – our thoughts are with his family.

Road Safety Survey

Do you want to improve road safety in Victoria? Share your views by participating in a survey

Are you a driver aged 18 years or over? Do you live in Victoria? If YES, Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) want to hear from you! Drink-driving and drug-driving continues to occur on Victorian roads and has been linked to serious injury and fatality crashes. MUARC is running a survey to hear about your experiences and views. Participate and help improve road safety across Victoria. Participants will be reimbursed for their time with a gift card. Click on the link below to learn more about the survey: https://www.monash.edu/muarc/aodsurvey/

Product Recalls

Saint Constance-Portable Pram Baby Toddler Stroller Convertible Jogger Baby Seat, Norluc Baby Car Seat and Kidstar Safety Car Seat

The product does not comply with numerous user instructions and labelling requirements.  Without the required labelling or instructions, the child car restraints may be used incorrectly, posing an increased risk of injury to the occupant if the vehicle is in an accident. Consumers should stop using the product immediately and contact Saint Constance Pty Ltd to arrange the return of the product and a full refund. For further information please click here.

Agent88- Oli & Carol Dalmatian Teether

The teethers are smaller than the permitted dimensions and may pose a choking or suffocation hazard. Consumers are advised to stop using the product and return to place of purchase for a refund or replacement with different product. For further information please click here.