Ripon Area Partners Collaborate On Child Seat Safety

Thanks to funding from the Ripon Area United Way, the Family Resource Center of Fond du Lac County and Ripon Medical Center are collaborating to offer monthly car seat installation safety checks for Ripon area residents.

            Starting Monday, September 11, interested individuals can drive up to Ripon Medical Center’s Emergency Department from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free sessions will continue the first Monday of each month during the same timeframe.

            Kayla Alvarez, CPS, of the Family Resource Center of Fond du Lac County, is the only certified car seat technician in Fond du Lac County that offers car seat installation safety checks. The service is offered at 17 Forest Avenue in Fond du Lac on Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. for parents, caregivers and grandparents.

For children ages 14 and younger, unintentional injury-related deaths happen most often when riding in a car. According to the most recent statistics, among children ages 14 and younger who were killed as occupants in motor vehicle crashes, 53 percent were not using safety restraints at the time of collision.

Children ages 4 and younger who ride in motor vehicles unrestrained are twice as likely to die or suffer injuries in a car crash. Car seats and seat belts must be used correctly to provide the best protection. Children younger than 12 years old should sit in the backseat.

            “We’re proud to partner with the Family Resource Center to offer this wonderful community service that helps to ensure that the children in our lives are protected and safe when traveling,” says Tami Schattschneider, Ripon Medical Center chief operating and nursing officer. “When welcoming a baby into any family, there are many questions, and we’re happy to help be a part of this important education.”

            Kristina Sullivan, Family Resource Center executive director, is excited about the local partnership. “Kayla is highly knowledgeable and dedicated to the safety of children. The Family Resource Center is grateful for the opportunity provided by the Ripon United Way and Ripon Medical Center to serve even more families in Fond du Lac County.”

            For more information or questions, call the Family Resource Center at (920) 923-4110.