Car crashes are a leading danger for children, but proper car seat usage can dramatically reduce the risk. If you’re a parent or caregiver in North Carolina, understanding child passenger safety and accessing resources is crucial. Fortunately, free car seat programs in North Carolina are available to help ensure your child is safe on every ride.
Why Car Seat Safety Matters
Motor vehicle accidents are the number one cause of death for children between 1 and 13 years old. In 2021 alone, over 700 children in passenger vehicles were killed and more than 100,000 were injured across the United States. Alarmingly, over a third of these fatalities involved children who were not properly restrained.
However, the good news is that child safety seats are incredibly effective. They reduce the risk of fatal injury by a staggering 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers. Choosing the right car seat based on your child’s age, weight, and height, and installing it correctly, is paramount.
Image alt text: Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians carefully inspect a car seat during a free safety check event, ensuring correct installation and child safety.
The Good Neighbor Car Seat Safety Program: A Helping Hand
Recognizing the critical need for accessible car seat safety resources, the Good Neighbor Car Seat Safety Program is a nationwide initiative dedicated to supporting families and communities. Safe Kids North Carolina, in partnership with Safe Kids Worldwide, Safe Kids Guilford, and State Farm, actively participates in this program to bring vital child passenger safety education and assistance to North Carolina residents.
This program emphasizes education for parents, grandparents, and caregivers, aiming to save lives by promoting the correct use of car seats for children of all ages and sizes.
Free Car Seat Checkup Events in North Carolina
One of the key ways this program supports families is through free car seat checkup events. Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians volunteer their expertise to inspect car seats free of charge. These technicians ensure that children are in age-appropriate seats and that those seats are correctly installed according to manufacturer guidelines and best safety practices.
Recently, a successful event was held in Greensboro, North Carolina, as part of the Good Neighbor Car Seat Safety Program.
Accessing Free Car Seats for Families in Need
Understanding that financial constraints can be a barrier to car seat safety, the free car seat program extends its support even further. Families who cannot afford a car seat are eligible to receive one for free at designated clinics, often in conjunction with checkup events. During these events, technicians will also assist with the proper installation and inspection of the newly provided car seat.
It’s important to note that the availability of free car seats may be limited, often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at specific events. Checking with local Safe Kids chapters or event organizers is recommended to confirm availability and eligibility.
Year-Round Car Seat Safety Resources in NC
Beyond special events, North Carolina offers ongoing resources for car seat safety. Approximately 3,000 Child Passenger Safety Technicians are operating across all 100 counties in North Carolina, providing support year-round.
For a comprehensive list of fire stations and other locations throughout North Carolina that offer free car safety seat checks throughout the year, please visit safekidsnc.org.
By taking advantage of these free car seat programs in North Carolina, you can ensure your children are riding as safely as possible, giving you peace of mind on every journey. Don’t hesitate to utilize these valuable community resources to protect your most precious passengers.
