Johnson City Fire Department (JCFD) is taking action to combat the often overlooked but critical issue of child safety in vehicles. A free child safety seat check has been scheduled for Thursday, July 25, an initiative that serves to educate and aid local families. According to a release on the city's website, certified car seat technicians from the JCFD will be available to install car seats, conduct inspections for correct installation, and to help parents understand which safety seat best suits their child.
Offering expert guidance, the technicians will be stationed at Station 1, located at 2238 Watauga Road, from 2-5 p.m. Recognizing the prevalent issue that many child safety seats are installed incorrectly, this event is a step toward increased prevention. JCFD Chief David Bell highlighted the importance of this initiative, telling the official city news, "Statistics show a majority of child safety seats are installed incorrectly. This event will help address the issue by providing parents and caregivers with expert assistance and education on proper child safety seat usage."
While the check on Thursday is a focal event, it is part of a broader year-round effort that includes multiple stations citywide offering similar checkpoints. Parents and caregivers who cannot attend can also reach out to the JCFD to arrange individual inspections. The JCFD underscores its commitment to child safety by ensuring that at least one car seat technician is on duty for every shift.
For those interested in taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of their children, calling the JCFD at 423-975-2840 can provide information on how to schedule a child safety seat inspection. This service is ongoing, with future community checkpoint dates and locations to be announced, aiming to reach a wider audience throughout the year. Chief David Bell told the city's news portal, "We are here to support families in making sure children are as safe as possible while traveling."
