Child Passenger Safety Program
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and injury for children over one year of age. When properly installed, child safety seats can reduce the risk of death by 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers. Seat belt usage increases the chances for surviving a crash by nearly 45 percent.
The Child Passenger Safety Program began in 1995. Funded by National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) grant administered by the SC Department of Public Safety (DPS) the goal of the program is to prevent and reduce injuries, disabilities and death to children due to motor vehicle crashes by:
- Counseling parents and community groups on child passenger safety.
- Demonstrating and instructing the proper installation of the various child safety seats (infant, convertible, and booster seats).
- Explaining the dynamics of a motor vehicle crash and potential dangers for children not properly restrained.
- Providing technical assistance as needed.
- Providing training to regional health offices, partner organizations, Community groups, etc., to ensure knowledge and skills to properly restrain children in motor vehicles.
- Serving as a resource for addressing Child Passenger Safety issues in the community.
- Stressing and educating on the importance of safe transportation for children riding in motor vehicles.
Child Passenger Safety Tips
4 Steps For Kids
- Step 1: Use rear facing child seats for children from birth to at least 20 pounds AND at least one year of age.
- Step 2: Use forward facing child seats for children over 20 pounds and at least one year old to about 40 pounds and about age four.
- Step 3: Use belt positioning booster seats for children from about 40 pounds to about 80 pounds and 4' 9''.
- Step 4: Use seat belts for older children large enough for the belt to fit correctly: at least 4' 9'' tall and about 80 pounds.
For additional information please contact:
Meredith St.Louis (803)898-0371