NORWAY — Certified child passenger safety technicians will provide free hands-on seat inspections between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Saturday, March 19, at the Norway Fire Department, 19 Danforth St., to ensure child safety seats are properly installed.

“It’s the responsibility of every single parent, caregiver or anyone who transports children in their vehicle to make sure their passengers are safely restrained — every trip, every time,” said Carol Welsh, RN, perinatal outreach coordinator for Stephens Memorial Hospital’s Family Birthplace. “When it comes to the safety of a child there is no room for mistakes.”

Welsh stated, “Car seats, when installed correctly and used, are extremely effective in saving children’s lives. Proper use of a car seat reduces the risk of death by as much as 71 percent for infants. However, car seats are complicated to install and use, and there are many models to choose from. Even the most conscientious of parents may make mistakes. It has been found that nine out of 10 car seats are not installed or used correctly, and that only 5 percent of children who should use a booster seat actually do.”

It is not necessary for caregivers to have the child, but if possible it is best to bring them. Childcare will be available as needed.

FMI: 207-743-1562 ext. 6951, www.wmhcc.org, www.facebook.com/StephensMemorialME.