El Cajon police are participating in a nationwide initiative this week to educate parents and guardians about selecting and installing appropriate car seats for young passengers. The observance runs through September 27.
Sergeant Brian Ehlers of the El Cajon Police Department stressed that ensuring children travel in age-appropriate restraints with proper installation can be critical during collisions. The department is working alongside law enforcement agencies and health organizations across the country to promote child passenger safety awareness.
Federal highway safety data shows that nearly half of all car seats are installed or used incorrectly. When used properly, these restraints significantly reduce serious injuries, cutting fatal crash injuries by 71% for infants and 54% for children ages one to four, according to national traffic safety officials.
State regulations mandate that children younger than two ride in rear-facing seats unless they exceed 40 pounds or 40 inches in height. California law also requires children under eight to use car or booster seats in the back seat. Once children turn eight or reach at least four feet nine inches tall, they may transition to standard seat belts.
Families seeking assistance can schedule complimentary car seat inspections by contacting their nearest California Highway Patrol office. The program receives funding through the California Office of Traffic Safety via federal highway safety grants.