07.09.09 You can’t concentrate on two things at once – that’s the advice being given to young drivers in a ‘driving while distracted’ campaign aimed at young and inexperienced motorists to stay focused on their driving.

Hard hitting advertising on buses, in the street and on the radio will ask young drivers to think about the consequences of driving while talking on their mobile phones, changing channels on their stereo or ipods, or just be talking to their passengers.

Of the 1412 injury accidents in Gloucestershire in 2008, 30% or 427 involved at least one driver aged between 17 and 24, and a further 107 passengers of young drivers were injured.

04.09.09 Parents, carers and childcare providers are being offered the chance to have their child’s car seat checked, free of charge by Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue’s Community Safety Team.

Appointments can be made for individuals to go along to their nearest full-time station; Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud or Cirencester, and officers will look at how well the car seat has been fitted, the condition and placement of buckles, harnesses and seatbelts, and whether there are any loose fittings.

Children’s centres, playgroups, nurseries and pre-schools can also ask for an officer to go to them to carry out checks on site. Children are precious cargo – keep them safe. To book an appointment, call 01452 753 333 and ask for the Communuity Safety Team.

For child car seat regulations and purchasing advice, see our Fact Sheet.