Free Car Seat Check Event in Tolono
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24, 2024
Contact
Christina Ladage, Senior Car Seat Instructor Proxy
217-531-4306 /
Tanya Giannotti, Public Relations
217-531-2925 /
Free Car Seat Check Event in Tolono
Champaign-Urbana Public Health District to Offer Free Car Seat Checks by Certified Technicians
CHAMPAIGN, IL – Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) is pleased to announce a comprehensive car seat check event scheduled to take place at the Tolono Fire Protection District, located at 214 North Bourne Street in Tolono, on May 8, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This event aims to ensure the safety of children traveling in vehicles by offering expert guidance and assistance in properly installing and using car seats. Parents and guardians are encouraged to participate in this vital initiative to safeguard their little ones during travels.
Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children, and the latest research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that 49% of car seats are misused. In Champaign County in 2023, 82% of installed car seats were improperly used. Common issues are children being in the wrong type of car seat for their age and size and car seats being installed improperly, both of which leave children vulnerable to injury in a crash. An average of two children under 13 were killed every day in 2021 while riding in vehicles, and another estimated 318 were injured. "Most parents do what they can but are still unsure," said Christina Ladage. "So, they may be surprised to find out their children aren't as secure as they think. We want to help caregivers ensure their children are safe."
Visitors will spend about 30 minutes with a certified expert, during which technicians will let caregivers know if their children are in the right seats for their ages and sizes, make sure car seats are installed correctly, and explain the importance of registering car seats with the manufacturer so they can be notified if there is a recall. If individuals are unable to attend but would still like to have their car seats checked, they can visit www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/car-seats-and-booster-seats#install-inspection. The
Champaign-Urbana Public Health District also offers free car seat inspections on the second Monday of every month, except for holidays. Appointments are not required but encouraged and can be scheduled by calling 217-353-4932. Drive-ups are also welcome.
For more information on child car seat safety, as well as how to find other car seat check events, go to www.nhtsa.gov/TheRightSeat
