CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District is hosting an event on Monday to help keep kids safe in their car seats.

CUPHD’s car seat inspection event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the north parking lot garage, located at 201 W. Kenyon Road in Champaign.

During the event, parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to learn more about the correct installation and use of car seats. Certified child passenger safety technicians and instructors will be present to provide further information.

This event precedes the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Child Passenger Safety Week, occurring from September 21-27 this year. However, CUPHD emphasizes that ensuring your child’s safety in a vehicle is crucial throughout the year.

Car accidents remain the leading cause of fatalities among children, and NHTSA data reveals that car seats are frequently used incorrectly. Notably, in 2024, 84% of the car seats reviewed by CUPHD had issues. Common problems include using an inappropriate seat for your child’s age and size, as well as incorrect installation.

“Most parents make efforts but still feel uncertain,” Christina Ladage with CUPHD mentioned in a news release. “They might be surprised to learn their children aren’t as secure as they believed. We aim to assist caregivers in ensuring their children’s safety.”

During the inspections, technicians will confirm that children are seated in protective seats suited for their age and size, check proper installation, and discuss the significance of registering car seats with manufacturers to receive recall information. No appointments are required to attend this event.

If you are unable to attend the inspection on Monday, CUPHD notes there is still an opportunity to have your car seats checked. Inspections occur on the second Monday of every month at CUPHD, with the exception of holidays. Appointments are necessary and can be arranged by calling 217-353-4932. Additional inspection events can be found here.

CUPHD’s Maternal and Child Health division is also holding a car seat donation drive. The donated car seats will be given to families in need, who will also be instructed on how to install the seat properly. You can find an Amazon wish list here; you can also drop off a donation in person at the WIC window at the health district’s main office lobby.