A new online service is helping parents and caregivers ensure their car seats are installed correctly, addressing a critical safety issue: three out of four car seats on U.S. roads are installed incorrectly. The free service, made possible by a grant from Buckle Up for Life to the National Safety Council, allows users to meet virtually and confidentially with a specially trained safety expert from their own driveway at a convenient time.
Ana, an expectant mother due in the spring, expressed relief at the availability of the service. “I know how difficult it can be to install a car seat, but I also understand how important it is to know how to do it correctly,” she said. “So, utilizing this virtual service with my cell phone, having a safety expert assist me from my home, is a tremendous service. And it gives me great peace of mind.”
Motor vehicle crashes remain one of the leading causes of unintentional child deaths. Buckle Up for Life, a child passenger safety education program created by Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and Toyota, works with safety experts who check thousands of car seats each year. Gloria Del Castillo, senior specialist of community engagement for Buckle Up for Life, emphasized the importance of seeking help. “We all know installing a car seat can be difficult,” she said. “So, it is important that parents and caregivers aren’t shy about asking for help. But they often don’t know where to turn to get that help. With this program, parents can meet with experts at their convenience and make sure their children’s seats are installed correctly.”
The National Safety Council team providing the virtual education sees the platform as a game changer. “No matter where you live and regardless of your schedule, this platform allows you to meet with an expert, have them view your car seat and get guidance on proper installation,” said Rosana Rivera, a child passenger safety technician with NSC. “After all, every parent deserves to have the confidence of knowing they are doing all they can to help keep their children safe.”
Anyone interested in scheduling a virtual car seat check can visit safety-connection.org/Spanish/. The service is designed to be accessible regardless of location or schedule, providing parents with the expertise they need to ensure their children's safety on the road.
