Child Safety Seats Checked at Texas High School Sept. 23-29

In recognition of National Child Passenger Safety Week (Sept. 23-29), parents and caregivers can have their child safety seats checked in the Texas High School Parking Lot on Summerhill Road.

This safety check is to make sure parents meet current safety standards, that seats are installed correctly and find out what type of safety seats are required for different ages and sizes of children.

On-site certified technicians will educate caregivers about proper car seat installation. No appointment is needed.  Replacement car seats will be provided to participants with substandard safety seats for qualifying Texas residents. Participants should be sure to bring proof of residency (such as a utility bill) and proof of government assistance (WIC or Medicare card). The child using the seat must be present and parents must know the weight and height of the child.

The event is being sponsored by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Northeast Texas Traffic Safety Coalition and Texas High School.

Important questions to ask oneself are:

• Is the child’s safety seat secure?
• Does it move from side to side in the car?
• Is the seat too large or too small for the child?
• Do I know the history of the seat?

Fact: Studies show 4 out of every 5 car seats are installed incorrectly.

For more information, contact: Irene Webster, TxDOT Traffic Safety Specialist at 903-799-1221 or Irene.webster@txdot.gov.