By: Matt Scher, matts@977thebolt.com
Humboldt, IA – Humboldt County Emergency Management is launching a new free child car seat inspection and education program aimed at helping parents and caregivers keep children safe on the road.
Beginning immediately, county residents can schedule appointments starting June 19 to have certified technicians inspect child safety seats and provide hands-on instruction.
Humboldt County EMA Director Kyle Bissell says modern car seats and vehicles have made proper installation more challenging.
“We want to make sure that the child is put in the right seat at the right place in the car for that child,” Bissell said of the program.
He says the program is personal for him after more than two decades in fire and emergency medical services.
“During my 23 years in fire and EMS, I responded to crashes involving children where a proper car seat may have made a significant difference in the outcome. If we can help prevent even one injury by educating caregivers and ensuring the child is properly secured, then this program is worth every minute that we’ve invested in the program.”
The inspections will include education on selecting and installing the correct seat for each child.
“Our goal is not simply to check car seats and send someone on their way. We want to make sure that caregivers leave with the understanding of why the particular seat is appropriate for their child, how it should be installed, and how to confidently install the seat by themselves in the future.”
Appointments will be available Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Residents can schedule by contacting Humboldt County Emergency Management at 515-890-0018.
Bissell says this is the county’s first child passenger safety program after he became certified earlier this year.