Local Law Enforcement Trains to Keep Kids Safe in Cars

Today, law enforcement and public service agencies in Middle Georgia spent the day learning how to properly protect kids in cars with the help of the Georgia Traffic Injury Prevention Institute.

“It’s pretty common for there to be misuse associated with child safety seats,” says Andrew Turnage, Education Coordinator, GTIPI.

On Friday night of Memorial Day Weekend, there were 15 citations issued for people improperly restraining children in the car.

“We don’t just want them out there writing tickets, we want them out there keeping kids safe,” says Erin Medley, Child Passenger Safety Technician Instructor, GTIPI.

Soon, Georgia law will require all children eight years and under to sit in booster seats in cars. Turnage says most children are not tall enough for adult seat belts until age 10 or 11.·

“So even though Georgia law goes to their eighth birthday, there’s still a gap of when kids reach 4’9”.”

Some boosters seats can cost up to $100, but parents don’t have to spend a lot to keep children safe at any age. They can purchase one for as little as $15.

“The cost of a booster seat is now extremely affordable,” says Turnage.

Even though a lot of parents are using them, four out of five are not using them correctly.

“Unfortunately we have a very high misuse rate,” says Medley.

For parents who need assistance properly buckling in their children, they can reach out to their local fire department.