The Franklin Park Fire Department is hosting Child Safety Seat inspections one Saturday per month.   To take advantage of these free car seat inspections, make an appointment today!  Contact us by phone at 847-678-2400 or email at firedept@vofp.com.

Are you confused with your child’s car seat? Are you confident it’s properly installed? Firefighter Tom Thompson completed a 40-hour class conducted by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and now has the title of a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician. During the class, Tom was taught the proper techniques of installation, sizes and also the new latch system that was installed by carmakers after 2001. They were also taught how to put a car seat back together, in case someone took it apart and forgot how it goes back. He is also aware of what seats have recalls on them. When Tom conducts an inspection, he goes over a twenty or so checkpoint list, which includes such items as making sure the seat is the proper size for the child, it is facing in the correct direction and properly installed. Inspections usually take about thirty minutes per car seat. Isn't investigating a fire the fire department's job?

Tom recommends that parents with seats over ten years old dispose of them. Beware of purchasing seats at garage sales. Spend the extra money and purchase a new one. The NHTSA also recommends that if you are involved in an accident, even a minor fender bender, that the seat be disposed of and a new one purchased. Accidents can alter the fittings and construction of the seat. They may not be noticeable, but why take a chance on your precious cargo. If unsure, have it inspected again.