NEWS RELEASE

(Summer Child Safety Seat Checkpoint Scheduled)

With summer vacation in full swing, many families spend a great deal of time in their car, whether on an extended trip or on weekend excursions. To help ensure that the entire family returns home safely, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, in conjunction with Toys R Us, will host a free child safety seat checkpoint. The checkpoint will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2000, 9 a.m. to 12 noon, in the Toys R Us parking lot located at 10065 SW Cascade Boulevard in Tigard.

At the drive-through checkpoint, trained inspectors will check child safety seats for secure installation, appropriate fit for the size and weight of the child, and manufacturers’ recalls. Parents will receive safety tips on how their child can ride more safely in the vehicle. A thorough inspection takes an average of 15 minutes per seat.

While most people assume that they are using their car seat properly, national statistics and the results of recent local inspection clinics have shown that well over 85% of car seats are being used and installed incorrectly. Incorrect usage creates a potential for greater injury in a crash.

Additionally, parents can pick up a free copy of Safety Facts, a booklet of valuable information about children's products and common household items that could endanger your child.

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