"We're only going to the grocery store."

"He’ll stop crying if I hold him on my lap."

"She thinks she's too big for a car seat."

 

Do any of these sound familiar? They’re all common reasons parents give for not putting their children in appropriate car seats or seat belts. Unfortunately, unrestrained or improperly restrained children are far more likely to be injured, to suffer more severe injuries, and to die in the event of a crash.

Motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death. In 1998, 1,765 child occupants ages 14 and under died in motor vehicle crashes, and in 1999 an estimated 272,000 were injured. Even if you’re a careful driver, you can’t control other drivers’ behavior or eliminate the possibility of a crash. You can, though, greatly reduce the risk that your children will be seriously injured or killed.

Squaw Valley Fire Department is committed to improving child passenger safety and reducing the incidence of childhood injury and death.  As a member of the Placer County Safe Kids Coalition, Squaw Valley Fire Station 21 is now a "fitting station", where, on an appointment basis, parents can receive training and materials needed to make sure that their child's restraint system fits their vehicle and their child.

In about thirty minutes, we will inspect your child car seat to ensure it meets safety standards, is the correct seat for you child and vehicle, and show you how to properly install the seat in your car.  You will also get valuable information including "turnaround time"--when the seat needs to be replaced to fit your growing child.

Click here to find the fitting station in your area.

Here is more information on the correct Safety Seat for your child.