HILL AIR FORCE BASE -- Patrol officers with the 75th Security Forces Squadron have noticed a trend at the Hill Field Elementary School drop-off area with parents not placing their children in car seats or safety restraints.
Security forces wants to remind parents that this is a violation of the law and a risk to their child's life.
“Every child deserves a safe and comfortable ride to school,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Cox, 75th SFS police services. “By using car seats and safety restraints, you are not only obeying the law, but also protecting your precious ones from harm.”
Car seats and safety restraints can reduce the risk of injury or death for children in a crash by 50 to 70% when used correctly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Car seat safety is not only important for long trips, but also for short distances. Most crashes occur within 10 miles of home.
"Even if you are driving only a few blocks, make sure your child is properly secured in a car seat. It could save their life," Cox said.
Parents are urged to follow these guidelines to ensure their child’s safety on the road:
• Use a car seat that is appropriate for your child’s age, weight, and height. There are four types of car seats: rear-facing, forward-facing, booster, and seat belt. You can find more information about each type and how to choose the right one on the NHTSA website.
• Install the car seat correctly in the back seat of your vehicle, away from active air bags. Follow the instructions in the car seat manual and the vehicle owner’s manual. You can also watch videos on how to install different types of car seats on the NHTSA website.
• Get your car seat inspected by a certified child passenger safety technician. They can check if your car seat is installed correctly and teach you how to use it properly. You can find a technician near you by using the Safe Kids Worldwide website or the National CPS Certification Program website.
• Register your car seat and sign up for recall notices. This way, you can receive safety updates and alerts if there is a problem with your car seat. You can register your car seat online or by mail using the information on the NHTSA website.
• Buckle up your child every time you drive. Make sure the harness or seat belt is snug and secure, and that it does not twist or pinch. Check that the chest clip is at armpit level and that the shoulder straps are at or below the shoulders for rear-facing seats, or at or above the shoulders for forward-facing seats.