Tough one ! I would warn them and say that you love and care for them very much but that when they don’t change this habit, you’ll have to report them to the police.

I would say that although you love them, the fact that they are not strapping their kids into the car is really having an impact on you emotionally, and you won’t see them unless they strap them in.

A long time ago there were no seatbelts, maybe they think it is still the same rule. Don’t get your kids get into their car if they are careless. Very silly .

I would definitely report the situation to the Police. If you know what time they leave their house on a regular basis give them the details so that they can pull them over. The Police would talk to them but would they take notice and obey the law – permanently, not at all, or just until they think they are safe to give up doing them up. Are they regularly taken to school or other place on a regular basis. Maybe the Police could set up a random seatbelt/rego/drivers license check near that location. Ask them not to use flashing lights if they can avoid it so they don’t have warning to pull over and do the kid’s belts up.

You have to contact the police or docs to help the children. Sure, it may be OK, but if it isn’t you’ll always have guilt.

Children first, always.

I would call the police for sure I really feel for the kids that aren’t strapped in because they don’t know any better and they’re the ones that will get hurt if not killed if there is an accident. SHAME on these people they shouldn’t be parents!

I asked my friend who is a senior detective constable about this. She said that the police should be definitely informed. This act is a criminal offence.

I would have no hesitation on calling the police – whether it was a friend, family member, or random stranger. These little lives are so precious!!!!!!

Hi, I think your concern for this family is commendable. In view of the fact that they will not listen to your advice, you may need to take a drastic action (I have done this myself in a similar circumstance). Most police are very friendly and willing to help. If you went to a local police station and explained the situation, they may be able to call to the house and talk to the parents. As they are not witnessing the event, there can be no charges laid, but having the police at their door may give the parents the fright they need to do the right thing when travelling. Hope this helps.

I have to agree with all the other answers and I say report them. Not only are they putting their kids lives at risk every single time they drive but they are teaching their kids bad habits that that may continue as they get older too.
Maybe even just ring your local Police Station and ask for advice on what they suggest you do.

Also; I would stop them from visiting until they act responsibly.

OMG I see this often. I would call the police. You have spoken to the parents and now it’s time they know you mean business. How old are the kids? Mine would freak out if the car moved a little and they were not buckled up. You could talk to the children and tell them how important it is. Tell them to remind Mum and dad they need help to buckle up. Use words like I will die if we have a accident. No different to parents still smoking in the car. Kids are taught this is not allowed in school programs. If kids are at school ask them what they have been taught about buckling up. My neighbours killed their daughter when their car blew a Tyre and the car rolled they were buckled in but the girl was not. Very sad ruined their marriage and lives.

im astonished!! we use a Houdini strap to keep them in. maybe shock tactics?

This makes me so sad that people would jeopardise their children’s safety. Please phone the police. I would also send some videos (just look on You Tube) of what happens to children in an accident.

How horrendous! I agree with the others, you need to take action. What about crime stoppers – the anonymous crime prevention number 1800 333 000?

I agree; this is very dangerous and illegal too! As nothing else has worked; maybe the thought of heavy fines and loss of demerit points may shock them into action? I would get brochures on seat belts in cars; responsibilities and fines and give it to them. I would also tell them and advise them of the road being ‘policed’ by the police. Then proceed.

I totally agree with the other replies. For whatever reason, these otherwise responsible adults are putting the safety of their children at such great risk. I would be notifying the police, perhaps once they are confronted by the law of child endangerment they may in future secure their children. To do nothing is to condone what they are doing. You could not live with yourself if you don’t report and the children were maimed or killed because of this blatant neglect.child protective services would be also an avenue to report this to,as well.

There is one thing you could do is if you know their movements take a chance and report them when you know they will be on the road. Explain the situation to the Police. If they definitely always leave home at the same time the Police may be able to catch them immediately when they get onto the street. OR don’t say anything to the guilty party and call the Police when you know they are likely to be near their destination. Maybe they could set up a random rego. check and “spring” them then.

This is horrifying to read and I really feel for you. Sadly it happens quite a lot. I would be reporting them without a doubt – especially as you have tried talking to them. If you are worried about losing a friendship, think about how much worse it would be for one of the children to lose their life.