Texarkana, Ark. – On Saturday, November 7, Arkansas Children’s Hospital will host a free car seat safety clinic at the Terry Lee Rogers Center, located at 1 Legion Drive. The event runs from 10 a.m. to noon and is open to all parents and caregivers who want to ensure their children are traveling securely.
What families can expect
Attendees are asked to bring their child, the current car seat, and the vehicle they use for daily travel. Hospital community‑engagement coordinator Heather Smith explained, “We want to check the seats to make sure that their kiddos are riding safely and appropriately.” Inspectors will verify that car seats are not expired, that the child fits correctly, and that the seat is properly installed in the vehicle.
Why the clinic matters
Smith highlighted a troubling statistic: “Car seats in Arkansas are misused at least 90% of the time. Many parents think they are doing it right but are actually not doing it all the way right.” Proper installation and usage dramatically reduce the risk of injury in a crash, protecting families and reinforcing the community’s commitment to child safety.
How to prepare
Families should check the expiration date on the car seat label before arriving. If the seat is past its date, a replacement is recommended. Parents should also review the manufacturer’s manual for any specific installation steps. The clinic staff will walk participants through the process, answer questions, and provide printed guidance for future reference.
Community impact
Free safety checks like this align with local efforts to promote responsible parenting and protect the most vulnerable members of the community. By offering expert assistance at no cost, Arkansas Children’s Hospital helps Texarkana families avoid costly mistakes and reinforces the importance of adhering to safety standards.
For more information, contact the Terry Lee Rogers Center or Arkansas Children’s Hospital directly. The event is open to everyone, and no appointment is required.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
