Stroller safety
What to look for when buying a stroller
Brakes: The effectiveness of the brakes and their engagement is vital. Look for rear brakes on both wheels that are foot-operated and linked, so the left and right brakes can be activated by a single lever rather than applied individually. Get an idea of how well they work by applying the brakes and then trying to push the handle. Check that they actively lock into position. Foot-operated brakes mean you don’t have to bend down, but make sure you can access them easily.
Harness: A five-point harness consisting of two shoulder straps (attached to the backrest at shoulder level), a waist strap and a crotch strap. The waist straps in particular should be securely linked to the stroller’s frame, so that the child can’t lean out and tilt the stroller. Give the harness a tug to check that the seat doesn’t pull away from the frame. The straps should be adjustable (allowing for growth) and the buckles easy to use (for you, but not your child).
Wheels: Look for front wheels that swivel to make manoeuvring easier, and that can be locked in the forward direction when travelling at higher speeds, over rough terrain or when parking on slopes. Large ones tend to be better on kerbs and stairs; pneumatic (inflatable) ones can puncture but generally give a comfier ride.
Dos and don’ts
* Never leave your child unattended in a stroller, and if it has a safety strap, put it on your wrist.
* Always engage the brake when the stroller is standing to prevent it from rolling. Brakes are coloured red on some newer models.
* Use a lift where possible, but if you have to use the stairs, take the baby out of the stroller.
* When at a train station, park the stroller parallel to the tracks with the brakes on and keep the stroller in view at all times. Travel in the carriage near the guard so they can make sure you’ve safely boarded or alighted.
* When jogging, always lock the front wheel of a three-wheel stroller into place to prevent the wheel swivelling.
* Be extra careful when talking on a mobile phone as you can easily not notice the stroller roll away – it only takes a second for a disaster to happen.
* Don’t attach a dog lead to the stroller
* Don’t overload the stroller with shopping or other items, especially around the handles. It can affect stability.
* If parking on a slope, park at right angles and lock the front wheel(s) in line if that’s possible. Apply the brakes carefully. Be especially careful on train stations, close to roads or water.
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