September 18-24 marks Child Passenger Safety Week – a week dedicated to educating parents about the importance of seat belts and car seats. One of the biggest issues that continue to plague parents is how difficult it is to correctly install a car seat. In fact, 4 out of 5 car seats are installed incorrectly, and according to an Oregon Health and Science University Hospital study, car seat misuse is even higher among new parents – 93% of families taking a newborn home from the hospital made at least one critical error when installing their car seat.
Is your child’s car seat installed correctly? Is your child’s car seat on a recall list? Would you like your child’s car seat checked? Then please come to the St. Cloud Police Department check-up event!
On Saturday September 18 from 9am to 11:30am a Child Passenger Safety Technician will:
- Fill out a car seat check form to document the process (including car seat type, location in the vehicle, misuse observations, etc.). The form may be electronic or on paper.
- Review car seat selection appropriate for your child’s age, weight, and height, as well as review factors that affect proper use.
- Review the car seat instruction manual and the vehicle owner’s manual to ensure that both are being followed correctly.
- Ensure that an appropriate seating position in the vehicle is being used.
- Check the car seat for recalls, visible damage, and expiration date.Guide your installation of the car seat. You are encouraged to ask to learn how to install the car seat in different seating positions with different installation techniques.
- Discuss the next steps for your child, such as when to move to the next type of car seat.
- Discuss your state laws and best practice recommendations for occupant safety.
- Discuss the benefits of everyone riding properly restrained, including all adults.Discuss safety in and around the vehicle.
- Answer any additional questions you may have
The St. Cloud Police Department is asking those wishing to participate in the event to practice social distancing when possible and to wear a mask when unable to practice social distancing for the safety of the technicians.
