NORWAY — The staff at the Family Birthplace at Stephens Memorial Hospital is urging parents, caregivers and grandparents to make sure their child safety seats are properly installed.

A car seat safety event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, at the Norway Fire Department. Certified child passenger safety technicians will be available to provide free hands-on seat inspections.

“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 Family Birthplace. “When it comes to the safety of a child there is no room for mistakes.”

 “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,” Welsh said. “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.”

Parents and caregivers can stop by to ensure their child’s safety seats are properly installed; compatible with their vehicle; haven’t been subject to a recall; and are the appropriate seat for the child.

It’s not necessary for children to be present, but it’s best to bring them if possible. 

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

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