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Car Seat Program

An Effective Practice

Description

The Washington County Car Seat Program includes a Distribution program and Car Seat Checks. The distribution program provides seats to low-income families living in Washington County for a donation of $10, which is used to purchase additional seats. The participants make an appointment where they are shown the parts of the seat, why it is important to use the seat correctly, and how to use it correctly. The participants demonstrate that they understand by installing the seat before they leave the appointment. Car Seat Checks are community events where participants can drive right up and have a seat that they already own checked. The seats are checked for recalls and misuse. If the seat is found to be unsafe to use, a new seat is provided for a small donation. Before the participant leaves the check, all corrections should be made and they should install the seat correctly before leaving.

Goal / Mission

The goal of this program is to increase the proper usage of child safety seats in Washington County, NY.

Results / Accomplishments

Between the distribution program and the car seat checks, we provide approximately 300 families with instruction on proper use of car seats. Since the beginning of the car seat program in 1996, injuries due to motor vehicle crashes among children under the age of five has decreased by 30% in Washington County.

About this Promising Practice

Organization(s)
Washington County Public Health
Primary Contact
Elizabeth St. John, Health Educator
Washington County Public Health
415 Lower Main Street
Hudson Falls, NY 12839
(518) 746-2400 x3478
estjohn@co.washington.ny.us
http://www.co.washington.ny.us/
Topics
Health / Children's Health
Health / Prevention & Safety
Organization(s)
Washington County Public Health
Source
National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO)
Date of publication
2005
Date of implementation
1996
Location
Washington County, NY
For more details
Target Audience
Children