In 2010, Altus Fire/Rescue responded to 95 motor vehicle accidents. With four out of every five child safety seats installed or used incorrectly, Altus Fire Chief J.R. Wheeler says, “We will continue to strive for safety in Altus and Jackson County.”

Altus Fire/Rescue Department is hosting a Child Passenger Safety Technician course January 24 through 26. The course combines classroom instruction and hands-on car seat installation along with a community safety check-up event.

Tara Davis, Secretary for the Department obtained Technician Certification by participating in a training course sponsored by the National Child Passenger Safety Board, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and Safe Kids Worldwide in July 2010. Davis is now in the Instructor Candidacy Program. “Having additional Certified Technicians in rural Oklahoma will enhance child passenger safety,” explains Wheeler. “More car seats will be distributed and installed correctly to ensure the future of tomorrow is buckled in safely.”

The time you invest in your child’s safety could save a life. Invest in your child’s safety; buckle everybody on every trip. Wheeler says, “Altus Fire/Rescue needs your help in being proactive and playing a part in reducing injury and death before the motor vehicle accidents we will respond to."

Have your child safety seat checked Wednesday, Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Altus Community Center at 401 Falcon Road. Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will inspect car seats for correct installation, placement, seat type, and harness positioning for FREE. 

Safe Kids Oklahoma will have a limited number of car seats available for eligible families, while supplies last. Eligible participants must provide proof of government aid in order to receive a car seat. For more information contact Tara Davis at 580.481.3517.