Learn how to use your child safety seat correctly.
As a service to the residents of the Scotts Valley Fire District, we offer free child seat safety inspections. A trained representative will show you and your family the proper child or infant car seat installation. Rest assured knowing that that your child is being securely fastened using the proper car seat by scheduling an appointment today! Contact Megan Bridges at (831) 438-0211 Monday-Friday between 8am and noon to schedule an appointment.
Child Car Seat Safety
- Make sure the child seat is properly installed each time you travel.
- Model safe behavior for your child; always use a seat belt.
- Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s and child safety seat instructions & recommendations.
- Most children under 4’9” tall should use booster seats regardless of age or weight.
- Avoid using second-hand car seats unless you are sure the seat has never been in a crash and is not on recall
California Child Passenger Safety Law
Children must ride in the BACK SEAT in a properly secured child passenger restraint system (car seat/booster) until they are AT LEAST 8 years or 57″ tall.
Vehicle safety belt should fit as follows: lap belt low (touching the thighs), shoulder belt across middle of chest and shoulder (not under arm or gehind back), knees bent comfortably without slouching. If your child does not fit this description, make sure they ride in a booster seat!
Santa Cruz County Child Seat Safety Inspection Sites
(By Appointment Only)
California Highway Patrol (831) 662-0511
Watsonville Fire Department (831) 768-3209
AAA Watsonville (831) 768-4540
AAA Capitola (831) 824-9140
Useful Links
The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Videos and Information: Car Seat Safety by Ages
American Academy of Pediatrics Recommendations, Video, Rear Facing to Two Years of Age
California Department of Public Health, Car Seat Basics, Choosing and Using a Car Seat
Parents Central From Car Seats to Car Keys: Keeping Kids Safe
Child Car Seat Inspection Station Locator
SafeKids Worldwide, Keeping Your Kids Safe in the Car
Top Tips to Keep Kids Safe, The Ultimate Car Seat Guide