A driver is facing charges after two children were found not wearing a seatbelt inside a vehicle at a RIDE stop in Ottawa’s west end. Ontario Provincial Police officers were conducting a RIDE program on the westbound Woodroffe Avenue on ramp to Highway 417 recently when a vehicle carrying a family with three young children pulled up. “Two young children were not secured in any child restraint system,” police said. “An infant’s car seat was not properly installed.” Police say officers laid seven charges as part of the investigation. “Properly installed and age-appropriate child restraints significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a collision,” police said. “Every trip, no matter how short, requires every occupant to be correctly restrained.” Police recommend drivers ensure a child’s restraints are suitable for your child’s age, height and weight and ensure harnesses and restraints fit properly. “Secure every child, every ride,” police said. In Ontario, the fine for failing to ensure a child is buckled up or in the correct child/booster seat is $240, along with two demerit points.
