VALDOSTA — The Valdosta Fire Department will hold Car Seat Safety Check event 9-11 a.m. March 27 at 3101 Barack Obama Blvd.

The event aims to ensure the safety of children in vehicles by verifying the proper installation and usage of car seats, according to a press release from the City of Valdosta.

According to national statistics, correctly used child safety seats can reduce the risk of death by as much as 71 percent. Despite this, many car seats are not installed properly, putting children at risk daily. VFD is committed to changing this by offering the community free car seat safety checks.

During the event, certified child passenger safety technicians from the VFD, SGMC Health Department of Trauma, the Valdosta Police Department, and Safe Kids of Lowndes County will inspect car seats, ensuring they are properly installed and compliant with the latest safety standards. Technicians will also check the expiration date of car seats to guarantee they are still effective in protecting children.

In addition to the car seat safety checks, the event will feature representatives from the Georgia Department of Health and Lowndes/Valdosta Family Connection. These organizations will provide other vital safety information for kids.

Fire and Life Safety Educator Sherina Ferrell emphasized the importance of car seat safety, stating, “The safety of our children is paramount, especially when traveling in vehicles. We encourage all parents and caregivers to take advantage of this free opportunity to have their car seats inspected by our trained technicians.”

To schedule an appointment, please contact Sherina Ferrell at sferrell@valdostacity.com.