It was bound to happen. With the eyes of millions upon him, Prince William’s technique of installing his newborn son into his car seat was certain for careful scrutiny.
While most admired the new Dad’s speedy handling – taking only second to plug the baby capsule into the seat before driving off in the family Range Rover – others noticed the one-day-old prince didn’t actually seem to be strapped in correctly.
Taking to social media sites, horrified parents pointed out Prince George seemed to be still swaddled while in his car seat which may have prevented the two shoulder straps from being placed firmly over his shoulders.
In the photos it appears as though only one, loose, strap is holding him in and it appears the buckle has been done up between his swaddled legs.
Eagle-eyed mothers also noted the capsule’s handle was still up even after it had been clipped into its base – with most manufacturers recommending the handle be pushed down before driving off.
A police agency in the Grampian region of Scotland even took to Facebook to remind parents of the importance of the correct use of car seats.
They wrote: “They may not be third in line to the throne but you need to make sure you’re your little prince or princess is sitting in the correct seat when travelling in your carriage (or family car).
“It’s important to remember that even in a minor crash, unrestrained children can be thrown about inside the vehicle, injuring themselves and others.”
One mum on BabyCentre.com wrote: “I noticed this INSTANTLY and my stomach turned. I even posted it on Facebook. I’m SHOCKED!”
The chances of the new prince being injured in a crash were pretty remote given the small army that made up the police escort for his short drive to Kensington Palace.
While some mums worried about the example Kate and William may be setting other parents others happily let them off the hook and lamented the fuss being made.
A parent named Jennifer posted: “My heavens as if being royalty isn’t enough, they are having people critique their every move! I’m glad no one watches my husband and I.”
And Kaitlyn K wrote: “Oh for God’s sake – she was in the public eye a minute and a half before “all hail the royal prince we can’t wait to see him” turned into “Kate is a horrible mother.”
Meanwhile Kate and William’s car-seat of choice – the Britax Baby-Safe Infant Carrier, which has an Isofix base that allows it to be plugged into points already fitted in the car is available only in Europe.
Expect it to fly off the shelves.
Photo: AFP