Did you know that 4 out of every 5 car seats are not installed properly? For caregivers, it’s not always easy to know how to correctly secure a child in a car seat, or how to fit the seat into the car. That’s why Delaware is joining the rest of the nation to promote awareness during National Child Passenger Safety Week, September 14-20.

What you need to know

Car crashes are a leading cause of death for children 1 to 13 years old. Many times deaths and injuries can be prevented by proper use of car seats, boosters, and seat belts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shares these facts:

• Every 34 seconds one child, under age 13, is involved in a crash.
• In 2012, over one third (37%) of children killed in car crashes were not in car seats, booster seats, or seat belts.
• 1/3 of kids aged 8-14 killed in crashes were riding in the front seat. All children under age 13 should ride in the back seat.

What you can do

To celebrate Child Passenger Safety Week, OHS is offering two opportunities statewide for families to get their car seats checked for free. Both are free and open to the public with no appointment needed. During these events, certified technicians will check your car seat and distribute important information on child passenger safety including tip sheets, how to register your car seat, and where to find car seat fitting stations.  Plus, Buckle Bear will be in attendance for the kids.

• Friday, Sept. 19, 2014 from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm @ Christiana Care Hospital Maternity Department.
• Saturday, Sept. 20, 2014 from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm @ Dover DMV.

Fitting stations are conveniently located statewide and staffed by certified child passenger safety technicians who will inspect the car seat for correct installation and show you how to properly position your child in the seat.  To learn more, please go to www.safercar.gov

Buckle Up. Arrive Alive DE.

Print