We're only going to the grocery store."

"He’ll stop crying if I hold him on my lap."

"She thinks she’s too old."

Do any of these sound familiar? They’re all common reasons parents give for not putting their children in appropriate child safety seats or safety belts. Unfortunately, unrestrained or improperly restrained children are far more likely to be injured, to suffer more severe injuries, and to die in the event of a crash.

Motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death. In 2001, 1,579 child occupants ages 14 and under died in motor vehicle crashes, and in 2002 an estimated 227,000 were injured. Even if you’re a careful driver, you can’t control other drivers’ behavior or eliminate the possibility of a crash. You can, though, greatly reduce the risk that your children will be seriously injured or killed.

The Baytown Police Department offers free Child Passenger Seat inspections and installation assistance. They are conducted at the CSB office at 220 W. Defee by appointment.  For appointment call 281-420-5376.