CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District is hosting an event on Monday to help keep kids safe in their car seats.

CUPHD’s car seat inspection event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the north parking lot garage, located at 201 W. Kenyon Road in Champaign.

During the event, parents and caregivers will also have the chance to learn more about proper installation and use of car seats. Certified child passenger safety technicians and instructors will be there to provide more information.

This event leads up to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Child Passenger Safety Week, which takes place Sept. 21-27 this year. But, CUPHD said making sure your child is safe in a vehicle is important year-round.

Car crashes are the leading cause of death for children, and data from the NHTSA shows that car seats are often misused. In fact, in 2024, 84% of car seats CUPHD saw were misused. Some common issues include not having the right kind of seat for your child’s age and size and improper installation.

“Most parents do what they can but are still unsure,” Christina Ladage with CUPHD said in a news release. “So, they may be surprised to find out their children aren’t as secure as they think. We want to help caregivers ensure their children are safe.”

During the inspections, technicians will verify that children are in seats meant for their age and size, ensure the seat is installed properly, and discuss the importance of registering car seats with manufacturers so that you receive recall information. Appointments are not needed to attend this event.

If you have to miss the inspection on Monday, CUPHD said there is still a chance to get your car seats checked. Inspections are offered on the second Monday of each month at CUPHD, except on holidays. But, appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 217-353-4932. You can also find additional inspection events here.

CUPHD’s Maternal and Child Health division is also holding a car seat donation drive. The donated car seats will be given to families in need, who will also be instructed on how to install the seat properly. You can find an Amazon wish list here; you can also drop off a donation in person at the WIC window at the health district’s main office lobby.