This week is National Child Passenger Safety Week. The Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) is encouraging citizens to participate in National Seat Check Saturday on Sept. 23. Tennesseans interested in participating should visit www.CarSeatSafety.kids to find nearby fitting stations and search for local car seat check events.
“Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children in America,” said THSO Director Buddy Lewis. “Anyone traveling with a child in the vehicle should feel confident that the child is properly restrained. If you are in doubt, please visit a local fitting station to learn safety tips and access certified child passenger safety technicians.”
According to the National Safety Council and AAA Mountain West Group:
· 58 percent of rear-facing car seats are installed incorrectly.
· 78 percent of forward-facing car seats are installed incorrectly.
· 90 percent of children using lap-and-shoulder belts should still be in a forward-facing car seat or booster seat.
· Three most common car seat mistakes include loose installation, loose harness straps, or not using the tether.
“The best way to ensure your child is safe is to find a car seat that fits your child, fits the vehicle, and can be used correctly every time,” said Julie Brewer, Tennessee Child Passenger Safety State Coordinator. “By visiting www.CarSeatSafety.kids, parents and caregivers across Tennessee can search for local resources. More events are being added daily. If you don’t see an event in your area, check the map and call the local fitting station to see if they are accepting appointments.”
For more information, please visit www.CarSeatSafety.kids or www.TNTrafficSafety.org/cps.
