Riverside County offers comprehensive programs designed to enhance child passenger safety through education and resources. These initiatives aim to reduce injuries and fatalities related to improper car seat and seat belt use. Understanding and utilizing these programs is vital for the safety of children in vehicles within Riverside County.
Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program (VOPD)
The Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program (VOPD) is an educational course tailored for individuals who have received citations for car seat or seat belt violations in Riverside County. This two-hour class serves as an alternative to a higher fine, offering valuable insights into occupant safety.
To participate in the VOPD program, certain requirements must be met. Firstly, the citation must have been issued within Riverside County. Crucially, participants cited for a car seat violation are required to bring a federally approved car seat to the class. This car seat must be free from any recalls, ensuring it meets current safety standards.
During the VOPD class, trained professionals deliver essential education on the significance of seat belt usage for all vehicle occupants. A key focus is on the severe risks associated with not properly restraining children in car seats. Participants learn about the correct installation and usage of car seats, contributing to increased child passenger safety on the roads.
For further details regarding the Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program, please contact (951) 358-7171.
Low Cost Car Seat Distribution Program
Recognizing the financial barriers some families face in accessing safe car seats, Riverside County has established a Low Cost Car Seat Distribution Program. This initiative provides car seats and booster seats at a reduced cost to eligible residents of Riverside County, coupled with essential education on their proper use.
Eligibility for the low cost car seat program is primarily based on participation in low-income assistance programs such as Medi-Cal or WIC. Residents who believe they qualify can initiate the registration process by calling 1-800-455-4942. Eligible participants are required to attend a one-hour educational class, available in both English and Spanish, to receive a car seat or booster seat.
These classes are conveniently held at 10 locations throughout Riverside County. It is important to note that classes are designed for adults only, as childcare services are not provided at the sites. To support the program’s sustainability, a nominal fee of $30 per child seat is required. This fee must be paid in advance by all participants via money order.
To connect with a certified child passenger safety technician for expert guidance, please call 1-951-358-7171.
Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Technician Information
For individuals interested in becoming experts in child passenger safety, Riverside County provides access to Child Passenger Safety Technician training and recertification. These programs are vital for building a network of professionals dedicated to car seat safety.
National Standardized Child Passenger Safety Renewal Course in Riverside County
This renewal course is designed for previously certified CPS technicians whose certification has expired. It offers a streamlined path to regain certification without repeating the full 32-hour course. The curriculum includes a review of updated technical information from the 2004 National Standardized Child Passenger Safety Training Program curriculum and practical skills assessment.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Standardized Child Passenger Safety Technician Training
For those seeking comprehensive training, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Standardized Child Passenger Safety Technician Training is a five-day intensive course. This program delivers in-depth training and resources on all aspects of child passenger safety. Successful completion of both the course and a practical clinic are mandatory steps to achieve national certification as a Child Passenger Safety Technician. The course emphasizes hands-on practice alongside classroom learning to ensure technicians are well-prepared to assist families in correctly using car seats.
