BLUFFTON, S.C. — The Bluffton Township Fire District will host two free car seat safety check events during Child Passenger Safety Week, Sept. 21-27, to help parents and caregivers ensure their children ride safely.
Certified child passenger safety technicians will provide one-on-one guidance, checking car seats for recalls and expiration dates, confirming proper fit, and demonstrating correct installation. Sessions last about 30 minutes and give caregivers hands-on experience and confidence in securing their child correctly.
NHTSA research shows that car seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71 percent for infants under 1 year old and by 54 percent for toddlers ages 1 to 4 in passenger cars. Yet many are still used incorrectly. In fact, 46 percent of car seats are installed improperly. Common mistakes include a car seat that is installed too loosely, not using the tether on a forward-facing car seat, and leaving the harness too loose.
“Unfortunately, many parents are overconfident about their car seats,” said Stephen Combs, Public Information Officer. “Even experienced parents can get it wrong, and the results can be devastating. These events give families the opportunity to get it right, with guidance from certified technicians.”
Event details:
Appointments are encouraged for personalized attention, though drive-ups will be welcomed as time allows. Caregivers and parents are asked to bring their car seat instruction manual and vehicle owner’s manual. If a child cannot attend, caregivers should provide the child’s age, height, and weight for proper seat adjustment.
Child Passenger Safety Week is a national effort led by NHTSA to raise awareness about the importance of properly securing children in car seats, booster seats, and seat belts.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit CarSeats.BlufftonFD.com.

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