Ensuring your child’s safety on the road is every parent’s top priority. One of the most crucial aspects of child passenger safety is the correct installation and use of car seats. Many parents, however, unknowingly make mistakes that can compromise their child’s safety in the event of a car accident. Fortunately, the Shelby County Health Department Car Seat Program is available to provide invaluable assistance and resources to families in Shelby County, Tennessee.
This program is designed to help parents and caregivers understand the importance of car seat safety and provides hands-on help to ensure children are riding as safely as possible. The Shelby County Health Department Car Seat Program offers a range of services, typically including car seat inspections, educational workshops, and in some cases, even low-cost car seats for eligible families.
Why is proper car seat installation so critical? In the event of a crash, a correctly installed car seat can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or fatality. Car seats are rigorously tested and designed to distribute crash forces, protecting the vulnerable areas of a child’s body. However, if a car seat is not installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and vehicle guidelines, its effectiveness can be drastically reduced. Common mistakes include incorrect harness tightness, improper seat belt routing, and not using the tether strap when required.
The Shelby County Health Department Car Seat Program addresses these concerns by offering free car seat checks with certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians. These technicians can guide you through the proper installation of your car seat, ensuring it is the right seat for your child’s age, weight, and height, and that it is correctly installed in your vehicle. They can also answer any questions you have about car seat safety and Tennessee car seat laws.
For families who may be struggling to afford a car seat, the Shelby County Health Department Car Seat Program may also offer options for low-cost or even free car seats, depending on eligibility criteria such as WIC participation or income level. Contacting the program directly is the best way to determine eligibility and available resources.
To learn more about the Shelby County Health Department Car Seat Program and how they can help you protect your precious cargo, please contact them directly. While specific contact information for the car seat program wasn’t directly provided in the initial resources, you can reach out to the Shelby County Health Department using the general contact information available to inquire about the car seat program. For WIC and general health services in Shelby County, you can call (901) 222-9980 or email [email protected]. It is highly recommended to reach out to confirm if this contact information also applies to the car seat program or if there is a dedicated line.
Take the proactive step to ensure your child’s safety. Utilize the resources offered by the Shelby County Health Department Car Seat Program and gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your child is riding as safely as possible, every time.
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