CENTRE– First responders from across Cherokee County and surrounding communities have completed child safety restraint training to help keep children safer on the road.
The Centre Fire Department announced the effort after local responders completed a multi-day Child Safety Restraint Educator Course. Alabama Fire College personnel presented the training.
The course brought together members of the Centre Police Department, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and Atrium Health Floyd Cherokee EMS.
Participants also represented the Ball Play Bend Fire Department, Leesburg Fire Department and Cedar Bluff Fire Department.
According to the Alabama Fire College, the program teaches the proper use and installation of child passenger safety seats. In addition, it provides hands-on instruction and experience needed to conduct child safety seat inspections.
As a result, trained responders can help parents and caregivers understand how to select, install and use child restraints correctly. The program also promotes local fire stations as community resources for childhood injury prevention.
Centre Fire officials said the training strengthens local efforts to educate families and protect young passengers before an emergency occurs.
The department also cited studies from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. According to Centre Fire, improper installation or use affects approximately 67 percent of child safety seats.
Officials warned that an incorrectly installed seat can put a child’s life at risk during a crash. Proper installation and use can make a lifesaving difference.
Although parents and caregivers may believe they installed a seat properly, NHTSA recommends checking its fit, installation and positioning. For example, families should use a restraint that fits the child’s age, height and weight. They should also follow the vehicle and car-seat instructions.
The Centre Fire Department thanked the Alabama Fire College and every participating responder for supporting the multi-agency training effort.
The department said prevention remains an important part of protecting the community, even after an emergency response ends.
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