Vehicle crashes remain the number one killer of children ages 2-14 in the United States. Making sure your child is safely restrained while riding in a vehicle could help prevent serious injury or even death. Correctly installing a car seat is a very involved process. There are a number of details to remember and safety issues to consider. That’s why the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District is pleased to offer free child safety seat inspections and installations.
Certified Staff
The RSFFPD has 2 nationally certified Child Safety Seat Technicians on staff. Each technician has completed a 40-hour course and is certified by the National Child Passenger Safety Program through Safe Kids Worldwide and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Child Safety Inspections
Our Child Safety Seat Technicians look at all aspects of the safety seat and vehicle to ensure proper installation. They also take the time to instruct parents in how to correctly install the car seat and secure the child in the seat. Topics addressed include:
• Ensuring the seat is appropriate for the child’s age, weight, and height.
• Proper placement of the seat in the vehicle
• Which locking method should be used to secure the car seat
• How to secure the child in the seat
Child Safety Seat Inspections are conducted twice a month - the second Tuesday from 8:00 - 11:00 a.m. and the fourth Thursday from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. - at our Administration Office. Walk-ins are welcome, but you may also schedule a specific appointment time during our scheduled inspections. Each installation takes approximately 45-60 minutes. For more information, to find out when our next car seat installation will be, or to schedule a specific appointment during an inspection, please call 858-756-5971.
PLEASE NOTE: The Child Safety Inspection that was scheduled for the afternoon of April 26 has been canceled due to the Grand Re-Opening of Station 3. There is a car seat event scheduled for April 25, from 12:30-5:30 pm at Pacific Safety Council, 9880 Via Pasar, Suite F, San Diego, CA 92126.
Additional Resources
Child Safety Seat Quick Tips Sheet (pdf)
Ease of Use Ratings by the National Highway Traffic Safety Adiminstration
National Transportation Safety Board
SafeKids.org
Big Kids