Sheriff's department to host child safety seat clinic
GREENCASTLE -- A child safety seat clinic and giveaway will be conducted free of charge Wednesday by the Putnam County Sheriff's Department.
From 1 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, the public can go to the sheriff's department at 13 Keightly Rd. to have the installation of their car seats examined by trained technicians. A limited number of car seats are also available for those who cannot afford a car safety seat that correctly protects their child from injuries possible in a collision.
"Taking care of our kids and keeping them safe is a big priority with me," said Sheriff Steve Fenwick.
"We were fortunate to get an ICJ grant to train department personal as well as purchase car seats for people who cannot afford to buy a seat," Fenwick said.
Five members of the Sheriff's Department have been trained as car seat technicians.
More than 80 percent of car seats are installed incorrectly.
"Our goal is to have a technician available at the Sheriff Department where you can call and set up an appointment to see if you are installing your car seat properly," Fenwick said.
Fenwick wants to have several open community clinics. He wants to find local county business to sponsor/partner with and hold events at their locations or at special events in the county
Check the Sheriff's Department website at www.putnam-sheriff.org. To make an appointment, call the sheriff's department at 653-3211.
Children depend on adults for protection, and drivers are responsible for the safety of any child riding in their vehicle.
Infants to one-year-olds and at least 20 pounds are to be placed in rear-facing car seats in the back seat. This is a minimum. This offers the best protection for your infant, so longer is better.
Children between one and four years old or (between 20 and 40 pounds) can be placed in forward facing car seats.
Children age 4 to 8 years old must be restrained in some form of restraint. This includes a belt positioning booster seat.
Children who are age 8 and older and can typically fit correctly in a lap\shoulder belt. Children up to age 16 are required to be restrained in a child restraint system or seat belt, in all seating positions, in all vehicles.