Car Seat Checks

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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 car seats is one of the simplest and most effective methods available for protecting the lives of young children in the event of a motor vehicle crash. Taking the time to have your child’s car seat checked may save their life.

If a vehicle has a passenger airbag, it is essential for children 12 years of age and under to sit in the back seat, which is considered to be the safest location in vehicles.

- Children under four years of age must use a federally-approved, properly-installed safety restraint system.

- Infants must ride in a rear-facing child safety restraint system until they are at least one year of age and weight at least 20 pounds.

- Children older than one year of age and who weigh at least 20 pounds may ride facing forward in a high-back booster seat. The harness straps should be positioned at or above shoulder level.

- Children between the ages of 4 to 8, who weigh 40-80 pounds and are under 4’9”, should sit in a belt-positioning, forward facing booster seat to raise the child’s seated height to allow the adult lap and shoulder belt system to comfortably and safety rest across their chest and shoulder. Booster seats must be installed according to manufacturer’s instructions.

The Burnsville Police Department offers demonstrations on how to correctly install child restraints and seat belts. These events are designed to increase awareness and proper use of car seats. Appointments are available to Burnsville residents. Participants should have their car seat and child/children with them at the appointment. Demonstrations last approximately 45 minutes per car seat.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Officer Lyn Tonne at 612-328-8498, Officer Alecia Halvorson  at 612-328-1505, or Officer Shannon Gibson 952-215-8433.