Child Passenger Safety Week Through Friday

Every day in 2009 an average of two children age 12 and younger were killed, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states on its website.

In 2009, an average of 340 were injured in motor vehicle traffic crashes as occupants of passenger vehicles as well, the administration states on its site.

For children ages 1 through 12, it is the leading cause of death. Child Passenger Safety Week falls during the third full week of September, which is observed Sept. 18-24 this year. During the week, parents and other caregivers across Missouri can have certified child passenger safety technicians inspect their car seats and provide advice for free.

Those interested in these services should stop by a car seat inspection station. Missouri law requires all children younger than 8 years old to be in a child safety seat or booster seat until they weigh 80 pounds or are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall.

The is and has had a car seat program for at least 10 years.

Although it’s a free program offered to local residents, those wanting the knowledge are required make an appointment at 314-731-3424. No walk-ins are accepted.

For additional inpsection stations NHTSA has an inspection station locator.