Safe Kids Northeast Florida and Wolfson Childrens Hospital Open Car Seat Inspection Site
Kohl's Gear Up 4 Safety Fitting Station to Help Keep Kids Safe

Jacksonville, Florida, August 20, 2009 -- A permanent car seat fitting station is now open to help parents and caregivers reduce the risk of injury to their children riding in motor vehicles. The safety seat inspections are offered free of charge at the Metro Square Office Park, 3563 Philips Highway, by appointment only.

The Kohl's Gear Up 4 Safety Inspection Station is operated by Safe Kids Northeast Florida, Wolfson Children's Hospital and their partner, the Duval County Health Department. Certified technicians will inspect, educate and assist adults in the correct installation of their child's seat. Free educational materials and supplies are distributed at the inspections, which take an average of 30 minutes per seat. The program is part of Safe Kids Worldwide's "Safe Kids Buckle Up" program, which has inspected more than one million seats in the past 10 years with the support of its sponsor GM/Chevy.

Injuries suffered while riding in motor vehicles remain the leading cause of injury and death in children 14 and under in the United States. Child safety seats dramatically reduce that risk when installed correctly. However, studies show that 85% of seats observed at inspections have misuses, making the hands-on training one of the most important things parents can do to keep their kids as safe as possible.

"We want all parents to take advantage of this service. It's important for each occupant of the vehicle to be restrained correctly and to ride in the most appropriate position available. Child passenger safety technicians are trained to help with a variety of issues that contribute to the safety of children of all ages," says Cynthia Dennis, RN, coordinator of Safe Kids Northeast Florida.

Those who are interested in a free safety car seat inspection should call Safe Kids Northeast Florida at 904.202.4302 for dates and to schedule their appointment. For more information, visit www.wolfsonchildrens.org/safekids.