Riverside County is committed to protecting its youngest residents by offering accessible and Low Cost Car Seat Programs. These initiatives aim to ensure that all children travel safely, regardless of their family’s financial situation. By providing both education and resources, the county strives to reduce the risk of injury and fatalities associated with improper car seat usage.
Understanding the Low Cost Car Seat Distribution Program
The cornerstone of Riverside County’s child passenger safety efforts is the low cost car seat program. This program is designed to provide car seats and booster seats to eligible, low-income families within the county. Recognizing that financial constraints can be a barrier to child safety, this program makes essential safety equipment affordable and accessible.
Who is Eligible?
Eligibility for the low cost car seat program is primarily based on participation in other assistance programs. Riverside County residents enrolled in programs like Medi-Cal or Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) are typically qualified to apply. This ensures that the program reaches families who are most in need of financial support to secure car seats.
How to Register and Participate
The registration process for the low cost car seat program is streamlined for ease of access. Interested individuals can begin their registration by calling a dedicated hotline at 1-800-455-4942. This initial call starts the process to determine eligibility and guide participants through the next steps.
Participation in the program involves attending a mandatory one-hour educational class. These classes are conveniently offered in both English and Spanish to cater to the diverse population of Riverside County. It’s important to note that these classes are designed for adults only, as childcare services are not available at the class locations.
Upon completion of the one-hour class, eligible participants will receive either a car seat or a booster seat. This immediate provision of safety equipment ensures that children can be properly secured in vehicles without delay.
Program Sustainability and Costs
To ensure the sustainability of the low cost car seat program, a nominal fee of $30 per car seat is required. This fee is paid in advance by all participants via money order. This small contribution helps to keep the program running and allows for the continued provision of low cost car seats to families in need.
Classes are held at ten different locations across Riverside County, making the program geographically accessible to residents throughout the region. This widespread availability reduces travel burdens and encourages participation.
For those seeking expert advice on child passenger safety, certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians are available for consultation. Individuals can speak with a technician by calling 1-951-358-7171 for personalized guidance and support.
Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program (VOPD): Education for Car Seat and Seat Belt Violations
In addition to the low cost car seat program, Riverside County offers the Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program (VOPD). This two-hour educational class serves as an alternative for individuals who have received citations for car seat or seat belt violations. Successful completion of the VOPD can result in a reduced fine, making it a beneficial option for eligible individuals.
VOPD Requirements and Class Content
To be eligible for the VOPD, the traffic citation must have been issued within Riverside County. Furthermore, participants cited for a car seat violation are required to bring a federally approved car seat, free from recalls, to the class. This requirement ensures that participants have access to compliant and safe car seats.
Trained instructors lead the VOPD classes, providing crucial education on the significance of seat belt use for all vehicle occupants. A significant portion of the class is dedicated to the dangers of improperly restraining children in car seats. Participants learn about correct car seat installation, harnessing techniques, and the importance of selecting the right car seat for a child’s age, weight, and height.
Resources for CPS Technicians
Riverside County also supports the professional development of Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Technicians. Recognizing the vital role these technicians play in community safety, the county offers resources for both recertification and initial certification.
National Standardized CPS Renewal Course
For currently certified CPS technicians whose certification is nearing expiration, Riverside County hosts the National Standardized Child Passenger Safety Renewal Course. This course allows technicians to efficiently regain their certification without repeating the full initial training. The renewal course provides an overview of updated technical information and includes hands-on skills verification.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Standardized CPS Technician Training
Individuals seeking to become certified CPS technicians can access the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Standardized Child Passenger Safety Technician Training in Riverside County. This comprehensive five-day course delivers in-depth training and materials covering all aspects of child passenger safety. Successful completion of the course and a practical skills clinic are prerequisites for national certification as a CPS technician.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Child Passenger Safety in Riverside County
Riverside County demonstrates a strong commitment to child passenger safety through its comprehensive programs. The low cost car seat program ensures that financial limitations do not compromise children’s safety in vehicles. The VOPD offers valuable education to those who have violated car seat and seat belt laws, promoting safer driving habits. Furthermore, the county’s support for CPS technician training strengthens the community’s capacity to provide expert guidance on child passenger safety. By combining education, resources, and professional development, Riverside County is making significant strides in protecting its youngest and most vulnerable passengers.
