And yes that means even adults should always be wearing seatbelts and not indulge in hanging out of sunroofs or windows. In August 2016 two Delhi families understood just how dangerous this can be rather tragically. In two separate incidents, a 3 and 4 year old were killed when they stood up and stuck their heads out of the sunroofs of their respective family's car. In both cases their throats were slit by stray kite strings, and both children died instantly. The Delhi government promptly banned the use of glass or metal coated kite strings. But that is not the only thing to do in such cases. While we need stricter legislation around child safety in cars - we also need parents not to encourage such actions or indulge their children. And when celebrities do it - it is seen in a whole different light, as the action then becomes aspirational, with many wanting to emulate it.
SRK's Convertible Ride With AbRam Was Adorable, But Potentially Dangerous Too
I was having deja vu as I considered whether or not to write this piece! Even in February this year the internet was flooded with seemingly adorable images of AbRam and his father Shah Rukh Khan a.k.a. SRK out for a joyride in their convertible. Then too I had pointed out, that quality time notwithstanding the fact that the boy was not in a child seat, and being held up above the convertible's windscreen, was highly dangerous, and irresponsible. That it could also encourage similar behaviour from Shah Rukh Khan's numerous fans is also hugely worrying. We all like our bit of fun, maybe even some mischief every now and then. But there are those who say, celebrities have no choice but to exhibit model behaviour - as like it or not - their actions are watched closely. And therefore they must be more responsible. I don't always agree with that as celebrities are human too. But the two incidents with AbRam Khan simply have me appealing to his parents - not for the sake of their fans - but mostly for the sake of AbRam's own safety. Please strap him in to a child seat when he is in a vehicle!
The good news is that many manufacturers do now have ISOFIX child seat safety restraints in many of their cars. And so now I appeal to all of you reading - please use a car seat for your children when and if possible. And even when they grow out of one, please ensure they sit at the back until they are at least 4'9" tall. This really is for their own safety! Yes it may be a passion of mine, but it's also something that should be very relevant to everyone - parents and non-parents! In a country with the highest road deaths every year - doing a little bit to help oneself, will just ensure that you are a little extra bit safe when you're out on the road.
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