Milford families can get their children's car seats checked for free at the Milford Community Fire Department ahead of Child Passenger Safety Week, which runs Sept. 20 through Sept. 26.
In 2023, 43% of children killed in car crashes were unrestrained, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Clermont County Public Health (CCPH) highlighted that figure in an announcement published by the Clermont Sun, urging local families to make sure their kids are buckled in correctly.
Ohio law requires all children under 8 to ride in a child safety seat unless they are 4 feet 9 inches or taller. Most children need a booster seat until ages 10 to 12, when they fit a standard seat belt properly, according to CCPH.
Where to get a free inspection
The Milford Community Fire Department is one of three Clermont County departments offering free car seat inspections. Miami Township and Union Township fire departments also participate. CCPH advises families to call ahead to confirm availability.
Milford's fire station is listed at 687-B U.S. Route 50 in April 2019 city council records. Appointments are required. Families can call 513-831-7777 to schedule.
The department has nationally certified child passenger safety technicians on staff trained through NHTSA and Safe Kids Worldwide. Firefighters Ashley Patrick and Tessa Clifton completed the certification course as of August 2021, joining other certified members at the department, according to Milford city council proceedings from that month. Fire Chief Mark D. Baird leads the department.
During an inspection, technicians help caregivers select and install the right seat type, whether rear-facing, forward-facing or booster, based on a child's age and size, according to CCPH.
Free car seats for eligible families
CCPH also manages the Ohio Buckles Buckeyes program, which provides free car safety seats to children from newborn to age 13. Eligibility is based on monthly household income. Four CCPH child passenger safety technicians run the program in Clermont County.
Families can apply or learn more at ClermontHealthOhio.gov/obb or by calling (513) 735-8400.
For general CCPH information, residents can visit ClermontHealthOhio.gov or call (513) 732-7499.
