Police Department Information
Police Department Child Seat Program McHenry Police Department Child Seat Program

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 safety seats is one of the simplest and most effective methods available for protecting the lives of our young children in the event of a motor vehicle crash.

We are asking all adults to make sure that their children are properly protected while traveling in a motor vehicle. Only the correct use of child safety seats will offer the added protection your child needs. So please be aware of the facts regarding the proper use of child safety seats, and drive sober, safe and buckled.

There are over forty different types of car seats on the market today. Each one meets federal standards and all provide good protection for your child when used correctly. The "right" seat for you is largely a matter of personal choice. Choose a seat you feel comfortable with, read the instructions carefully, and use the seat correctly on every trip.

Many parents feel a used safety seat is a good bargain or others may have trouble affording a new seat. Some used safety seats may be perfectly safe, especially if they are fairly new and have had only one owner. However, any used seat could have many problems and should be checked carefully. If the seat has had more than one owner, it may be difficult to get accurate information. Answer the following questions to see if your seat is.

  • Was the seat ever used in a vehicle during a crash?
  • Is the shell cracked or the frame rusted?
  • Is the seat missing any parts? Are straps frayed, clips bent or metal slides rusted?
  • Has the seat been recalled for safety defect? If unsure, contact manufacturer.
  • Is the seat over 6 years old? (Although, some seats may be safe even when 5-10 years old, it is recommended that seats not be used if they are over 6 years old. Normal wear and tear may cause the seat to not work as well. Seats manufactured before 1981 should never be used).

If you answered YES to any of the above questions do not use the seat.

With generous donations from Medela of McHenry, a trailer was purchased to provide transportation of materials to car seat checks in the McHenry County area. Ford Motor Company provided numerous belt positioning booster seats to provide to families in need. These booster seats fit the class of children most forgotten in safety seats, the 40 - 80 pound children.

If you have any questions regarding the safe installation or use of child seats please contact: