Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death of children over the age of six months in the United States. The proper use of child car seats is one of the simplest and effective methods available for protecting the lives of our young children in the event of a motor vehicle crash.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 8325 lives of children under age 5 have been saved by the proper use of child restraints during the past 30 years.  In 2006, among children under 5, an estimated 425 lives were saved by child restraint use. Research shows that child restraints provide the best protection for all children up to age 8; after age 8 seatbelts provide the best protection. 

• 61% of the children under 14 years old who died in motor vehicle crashes were unrestrained.
• Properly utilized child restraint systems are 71% effective in reducing deaths for infants and 54% effective in reducing toddler deaths in motor vehicle crashes.

Officer Thomas Sciaretta and Officer Aaron Buerstetta of the Long Hill Township Police Department are certified technicians on Standardized Child Passenger Safety. The course was developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Officer Sciaretta and Officer Buerstetta are available to provide current information about child passenger safety, to educate and demonstrate the proper use of the car seat, and to assist parents and caregivers with any questions or concerns regarding the child passenger seat.

Long Hill Township Police Department offers free child passenger safety restraint checks.  To schedule your inspection, please contact Chief Dan Hedden by calling 908-647-1800 ext. 228.