KPD to Host Free Car Seat Check in Līhu‘e Today

Photo courtesy of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

The Kaua‘i Police Department’s Traffic Safety Section will be hosting a free car seat safety inspection today, Nov. 15, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School in Līhu‘e, according to county news release.

“Our certified child passenger seat technicians will be available on Thursday to inspect car seats and installations, and make the necessary recommendations or adjustments right there on the spot,” Acting KPD Chief Michael Contrades said. “Car seat installation can be a complicated process and it must be done correctly to ensure your child’s safety, which is why we encourage all parents and guardians to take advantage of this free event.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, car crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13. Research has shown that properly installed child safety seats can reduce the risk of infant fatalities by 71 percent, and by 54 percent for toddlers, ages 1 to 4 years old.

Photo courtesy of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Hawai‘i state law requires children under the age of 4 to ride in a child safety seat, and children under the age of 8 to ride in a child passenger restraint or booster seat. Violators could face a fine of up to $500, and may be required to take a child passenger safety course.

Safety officers additionally advise that children remain in a booster seat until they are big enough to fit in a seat belt properly, even if they are over the age of 8. According to NHTSA, a proper seat belt should lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the stomach. The shoulder belt should lie snugly across the shoulder and chest, and not across the neck or face.

For tips to increase your child’s car seat safety, visit www.nhtsa.gov.

For more information on car seat inspections, call KPD’s Traffic Safety Section at 241-1618.

To request an ASL interpreter, materials in an alternate format, or other auxiliary aid support, or an interpreter for a language other than English, please contact Officer Shawn Hanna at 241-1618 before the event.