Jackson area families wanting to make sure their children travel safely can take advantage of a new program from the Jackson Fire Department (JFD). This past fall, firefighters launched the Car Seat Inspection Program.
“With no other certified inspection program in Jackson County, we realized this would be a vital service to offer parents and guardians in the area,” said Firefighter Matt Jabkiewicz. Jackson Police Reserve Officer Gavin Fowler and Jabkiewicz are currently the only two public safety personnel certified to do these checks. JFD held four inspection events in 2022 and look forward to continuing the program in 2023. Checks are done at the Central Fire Station on N. Jackson Street.
Crews look to make sure the car seat is in proper working order, fastened to the vehicle correctly, and is a safe fit for the child. A limited number of car seat replacements are available for free if the seat is found to be unsafe. “A lot of parents may be surprised to learn their child’s car seat is not installed properly or could be dangerous in a crash,” Jabkiewicz said. “This is a simple thing we can do to make sure children are as safe as possible while on the road.”
Information about 2023 inspections will be posted in the fire department section of the City website, cityofjackson.org/fire. Residents can also call the Central Fire Station at 517-788-4150 with questions about the program.