Child Safety Seat Program

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of death among children in the United States. According to the CDC, in 2019, more than 600 children 12 and younger died in motor vehicle crashes, and more than 91,000 were injured. Of the children 12 and younger who died in a crash (for whom restraint use was known), 38% were not buckled up. Parents and caregivers can make a lifesaving difference by checking whether their children are properly buckled on every trip. Data show that car seat use reduces the risk for injury in crashes by 71–82% for children, when compared with seat belt use alone. Booster seat use reduces the risk for serious injury by 45% for children age 4–8, when compared with seat belt use alone.

To ensure full functionality it is essential that the car seat be properly installed. The Croton-on-Hudson Police Department, in conjunction with the National Highway Safety Administration, offers, at no cost to the general public, child safety seat installations and safety checks on an appointment basis. The Department has four certified car seat technicians on staff. Our Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians assist with the proper installation of child safety seats. Our technicians look for improperly installed, broken or recalled safety seats and will demonstrate and explain to parents and caregivers about the proper selection, installation, and use of car seats, booster seats, and proper use of seatbelts.

For more information about the program or to schedule an appointment, please contact the Croton Police Department at: 914-271-5177.

This article was written by members of the Police Advisory Committee as part of the Community Information Project.