Child Passenger Safety

3 out of 4 Child Safety Seats are installed improperly...

 ...that is why the City of Batavia Fire Department, along with the Police Department, participate in the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee and National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations' Child Passenger Safety Seat Program. The purpose of this program is to raise awareness and convey accurate technical information about proper child restraint usage.

Our 18 Nationally Certified Technicians are available seven days a week between the hours of 8am - 4pm and have performed over 300 seat inspections since 2011!

 

Happy New Year!

As we embark on a fresh start in 2024, let's make a resolution to prioritize the safety of our little ones on the road. The City of Batavia Fire Department Car Seat Program encourages caregivers to perform a January car seat review and reset to ensure safe car seat practices. By taking the three steps listed below, you can help keep your children safe in their seat.

1. Check for Expiration Dates

Just like many other products, car seats have an expiration date. This is due to wear and tear, changes in materials, and evolving safety standards. Does your seat expire in 2024? Here's what you need to know:

-Locate the Expiration Date: Check the label on your car seat to find the expiration date. If it's missing or unclear, consult the manufacturer's website or contact their customer service for assistance.

-Why Expiration Matters: Over time, the structural integrity of the car seat can be compromised. Using an expired car seat puts your child at risk in the event of a collision.

-Dispose Responsibly: If your car seat has reached its expiration date, please dispose of it responsibly.

2. Start the New Year Fresh, with a Clean Seat

As we navigate through the winter months, keeping your child's car seat clean becomes a bit more regular when salt, snow and slush enter the car. Here are some cleaning tips:

-Read Instructions Before You Clean: Never clean a car seat without referencing the car seat user manual first. If you cannot locate your user manual, you should contact the manufacturer for instructions. Cleaning instructions vary. Not adhering to the cleaning instructions of your car seat may damage the integrity of the car seat.

-Reference YouTube for Manufacturer Videos: We know the hardest part of cleaning the car seat is trying to put it back together properly. Did you know some manufacturers offer step-by-step videos on how to reassemble your seat once it's clean?

-Check for Crumbs and Debris: Regularly check for any food crumbs or debris in the seat crevices. Crumbs will often find their way into the harness adjuster button, causing friction when you try to loosen or tighten the harness.

3. Review Future Transitions

Will your infant transition from an infant carrier to a convertible rear-facing seat this year? Or maybe you're expecting baby number 3 and need to review three-across situations with your vehicle? January is a great time to think ahead to these transitions. Planning will help avoid potential stress and non-compatibility surprises.

We hope these tips serve as a valuable reminder to prioritize car seat safety in the new year. Let's make 2024 a year of safe travels for our little ones. As always the City of Batavia Fire Department is available to inspect your car seats by simply calling Fire Headquarters to schedule an appointment. (585)345-6375

Child Safety Seat Tips, Sites, and Resources
Give Kids A Boost - Information on New York's Occupant Restraint Law
Used Child Safety Seat Checklist - If you have a used child safety seat, please follow our checklist to be sure its safe.
Recall list for child safety seats
New York's 4 Steps 4 Kids - Child passenger safety
https://www.kidsandcars.org/ - Child and Car Safety Information