In observance of Child Safety Week, the Virgin Islands Police Department, the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety, and Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPST) provided free car seat safety checks to caregivers with young children, the departments announced.
Nationwide, there is a strong emphasis on providing education, resources, and services to promote child transportation laws and reduce the risk of crash injuries and fatalities. However, territory-wide, these services are available year-round, according to the press release.
On “Seat Check Saturday,” CPS Technicians assisted caregivers with children in car seats at the Wendy’s parking lot on St. Croix and the Edith Williams Alternative Academy on St.
Thomas. Data collected from the events showed that 94.7 percent of the car seats checked had usage errors that could cause harm to child crash victims, the press release stated.
Common errors included loose installation, loose or twisted straps, misplaced chest clips, and failure to utilize all clips and buckles. Booster seats were also issued to caregivers in need, the release stated.
“At this rate, if you have a car seat, it is likely that your child may be riding at risk,” cautioned VIOHS Occupant Protection Coordinator Denise Gomes. “Each caregiver that we assisted was well-intentioned, thinking that their young passengers were safe by virtue of being in a safety seat. A free 20-minute safety check can save families a lifetime of regret.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that car crashes are the leading cause of pediatric fatalities. NHTSA data also shows that car seats and booster seats are effective in reducing the risk of crash-related injuries for children. However, it’s important to use the car seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions for it to be effective. CPSTs are certified to help caregivers choose, use, and install these life-saving devices safely, the release stated.
For more information about child passenger safety or to schedule a car seat safety check,
contact the V.I. Office of Highway Safety through Director Daphne O’Neal at
daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov, or Occupant Protection Planner/Coordinator Denise Gomes at
denise.gomes@vipd.vi.gov or contact the office at 340-473-7383.
