Ensure Your Child’s Safety: Join Us for a Free Car Seat Inspection Event!

As Child Passenger Safety Week approaches, scheduled for Sept. 15 to 21, the Maricopa Fire and Medical Department (MFMD) is emphasizing the crucial role of properly securing children in car seats. This initiative aims to raise awareness about car seat safety among parents and caregivers.

On Sept. 14, from 8 to 10 a.m., MFMD will host a free car seat inspection event. Certified technicians from MFMD and the Ak-Chin Indian Community will be available to assess car seat installations, ensuring compliance with safety standards. The Arizona Department of Child Safety’s Office of Prevention is providing resources for this first-come, first-served event.

Child passenger safety is a serious concern; car crashes remain one of the leading causes of death for children under 13 in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, correct usage of car seats, booster seats, and seat belts can significantly minimize the risk of injury during an accident.

“As first responders, we witness how proper seat belt and car seat usage can save lives and mitigate injuries,” stated MFMD Fire Chief Brad Pitassi. “Our aim for this event is to equip parents and caregivers with the knowledge and tools necessary to secure their children effectively while traveling.”

While the inspection event is a valuable opportunity, here are three critical tips for ensuring your child’s car seat is safely installed:

1. **Consult Manuals:** Always read the manuals for both your car seat and vehicle. Each car seat comes with specific guidance regarding installation, weight limits, and safety features. Understanding your vehicle’s anchor and tether locations is equally important.

2. **Check for Tightness:** After installation, shake the car seat at its base. A correctly installed seat should not move more than an inch in any direction.

3. **Adjust the Harness:** When securing your child, ensure the harness is snug enough that you can’t pinch any webbing. The chest clip should align with your child’s armpits to maintain proper strap positioning.

Furthermore, parents can check for car seat recalls through official channels to ensure their equipment is up to date.