According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHSTA), approximately 1,800 children ages 14 and under lose their lives as the result of a motor vehicle crash each year. Another 280,000 children are injured as a result of these accidents. In fact, motor vehicle accidents account for the leading cause of death for children ages 2 to 14.
Child safety seats, when properly installed, save lives. A study released by the National Safe Kids Campaign, however, reports that at least 85 percent of the 17,500 seats inspected were installed incorrectly. The most common misuses were the safety belt not holding the seat tightly and harness straps not being used properly.
The Albany Police Department is committed to child safety and shares in NHTSA’s goal of ensuring that every child is properly secured and safe…every trip, every time. As part of our efforts, the Albany Police Department offers free child safety seat inspections to Albany residents.
Appointments can be made by contacting the Albany Police Department at (510) 525-7300. Interested residents may also email Ofc. Pete O’Connor directly with questions at poconnor@albanyca.org.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
How long does an appointment last?
An appointment will last approximately 30-45 minutes. You will be instructed on the function of your seat, proper fit and installation for your vehicle, and how to secure your child in the seat accurately.
What should I bring to an appointment?
1. The child seat, as you have it currently installed in your vehicle.
2. The child (unless you are pregnant or cannot travel safely with the child.)
3. The car seat's owner's manual.
4. Your vehicle's owner's manual.
5. Please arrive with your seat already installed as you would normally use it.
Why are inspections by appointment only?
Installations are done by appointment to ensure that citizens are guaranteed a certified car seat technician is available for their entire appointment.
Why should we have our car seat(s) inspected by a trained technician?
Each vehicle, seat belt and car seat presents a unique and sometimes challenging situation. Having your seat(s) checked by a trained technician will lower the chance of your children being unnecessarily injured in a crash.
What is the law regarding child restraints in California?
Children 0-6 years old (or under 60 pounds) must be restrained in an approved car seat. Children 6-16 years old must be restrained in a seat belt. Children 1 year old or younger (or less than 20 pounds) may not ride in the front seat of the vehicle.
However, the law alone does not protect your child. It is important to realize that seat belts are designed to fit adults. Even though a child may legally be transported using only a seatbelt, some children may not be ready to graduate from their child seat. Children should be retrained in some type of seat, whether it is a 5-point harness or a belt-positioning booster, until they fit the seat belt like an adult. The recommended guideline for children using a seatbelt ONLY is 4'9" tall and 80-100 pounds.
When can my child sit in the front seat?
When properly restrained, children are safest in the back seat of a vehicle. The center, rear position is the safest as there is more vehicle surrounding the child in all directions. Additionally, children are particularly vulnerable to the explosive impact of front air bags. Most vehicle manufacturers suggest having children ride in the back seat until they are at least 13 years old. Drivers are encouraged to read their vehicle’s owner’s manual for more specific information.
What should I do if my child won't stay in her/his car seat or seat belt?
Children do not know what is best for them. Many times, making it clear to children that they will not be allowed to travel anywhere until they are properly restrained can solve the problem. It is equally important for children to remain securely in their car seat for the duration of the trip. Should children unlatch themselves, pull to the side of the road, stop in a safe place, and re-secure the child. Always set a good example by always buckling up the moment you get in the car.
How do I know if my car seat has been recalled?
www.carseat.org/Recalls
Where can I get more information until my scheduled appointment?
Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration site at www.nhtsa.dot.gov or Safe Kids USA at www.usa.safekids.org for more help.