Child Passenger Safety

Every child restraint manufacturer knows the best way to install their own car seats. Always carefully read the instruction manual that came with your car seat, plus your vehicle owner's manual. However, the only way to be sure your child restraint is being used correctly is to have it checked by a certified technician.

Certified Technicians

Technicians are volunteers that are certified by the National SAFE KIDS campaign through the Child Passenger Safety class developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This 32-hour class certifies participants as Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPST) and includes training on topics such as:

  • Crash dynamics
  • Injury prevention
  • Federal standards
  • Restraint features in vehicles
  • Types of child restraints
  • Proper selection and installation of restraints
  • Multiple hands-on exercises where students must demonstrate proficiency in applying their skills

This certification is maintained through ongoing education and practical application, all of which is verified through the certifying body.

Find a CPST

Call 630-454-2100 today to schedule your car seat check at Batavia Fire Department.

In addition to directly contacting your local fire or police department to schedule a seat check, you can also attend a car seat checkup event. These can take place in a store parking lot, a fairground, or any number of locations. Seat checks are always free, a great learning experience, and fun too!

High Back Belt Positioning Booster Seat
Child Safety Seat Check

Bring your child restraint manual as well as your vehicle manual when you go to have your seat checked by a CPST. And bring your child along so you can learn the best way to restrain her. The main goal of a CPST is not to install your child restraint, it is to teach you how to install it correctly every time.

As Your Child Grows

The appropriate restraint for your child will change over time. Most hospitals require that a newborn be taken home in an appropriate safety seat, but it doesn't end there. When your baby outgrows her rear-facing infant seat she will need to switch to a convertible and/or forward-facing seat and finally to a belt-positioning booster. Do you know when these changes should be made?