|
Child Safety Seat Program
 Motor
vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death of children over
the age of six months in the United States. The proper use of child
safety seats is one of the simplest and most effective methods
available for protecting the lives of our young children in the
event of a motor vehicle crash.
We are asking all
adults to make sure that their children are properly protected while
traveling in a motor vehicle. Only the correct use of child safety
seats will offer the added protection your child needs. So please be
aware of the facts regarding the proper use of child safety seats,
and drive sober, safe and buckled.
There are over forty
different types of car seats on the market today. Each one meets
federal standards and all provide good protection for your child
when used correctly. The "right" seat for you is largely a matter of
personal choice. Choose a seat you feel comfortable with, read the
instructions carefully, and use the seat correctly on every trip.
Many parents feel a
used safety seat is a good bargain or others may have trouble
affording a new seat. Some used safety seats may be perfectly safe,
especially if they are fairly new and have had only one owner.
However, any used seat could have many problems and should be
checked carefully. If the seat has had more than one owner, it may
be difficult to get accurate information. Answer the following
questions to see if your seat is .
1.
Was
the seat ever used in a vehicle during a crash?
2.
Is
the shell cracked or the frame rusted?
3.
Is
the seat missing any parts? Are straps frayed, clips bent or metal
slides rusted?
4.
Has
the seat been recalled for safety defect? If unsure, contact
manufacturer.
5.
Is
the seat over 6 years old?
(Although, some seats may be safe even when 5-10 years old, it is
recommended that seats not be used if they are over 6 years old.
Normal wear and tear may cause the seat to not work as well. Seats
manufactured before 1981 should never be used).
If
you answered YES to any of the above questions do not use the seat.
With generous donations
from Medela of McHenry, a trailer was purchased to provide
transportation of materials to car seat checks in the McHenry County
area. Ford Motor Company provided numerous belt positioning booster
seats to provide to families in need. These booster seats fit the
class of children most forgotten in safety seats, the 40 – 80 pound
children.
If you have any questions regarding the safe
installation or use of child seats please contact Officer John R.
Adams at the City of McHenry Police Department at
jadams@ci.mchenry.il.us
or by telephone at (815)363-2200.
|
