Promoting safe car seat practices during Child Passenger Safety Week

Recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that on average, two children under 14 are killed and almost 350 are injured in car accidents each day. This startling statistic underscores the importance of proper car seat usage. As part of Child Passenger Safety Week, experts are working to educate parents on how to effectively restrain their children in vehicles. Captain Drew Piemonte of the Springfield Fire Department stressed the significance of adhering to manufacturer instructions for car seat installation. Not following these instructions can lead to improper mounting and installation of car seats, increasing the risk of safety issues in the event of a motor vehicle accident. Child safety car seats are found to be invaluable, reducing the risk of fatal injuries by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers in passenger vehicles. Firefighters, who often witness car accidents firsthand, emphasize the impact of properly installed child restraints in improving accident outcomes. Firefighter-paramedic Kyle Rondeau from Southampton Fire highlighted the importance of using rear-facing car seats for children aged 0 to 12 months, as this positioning helps prevent neck and spine injuries during a crash. Local fire departments are providing free car seat checks for those in need, with the Easthampton Fire Department hosting a car seat installation event this Saturday for the benefit of all Easthampton families.