EMS & Injury Prevention System Branch

Hawai‘i Child Passenger Safety Program

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Traffic related injuries are one of the leading causes of death and injuries for children of all ages nationwide. Research from Safe Kids Worldwide shows that when child safety seats (car seats) are used correctly, they can reduce the risk of death by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers; however, 4 out of 5 car seats are used incorrectly. The National Child Passenger Safety Certification (CPS) Training Program certifies individuals as child passenger safety technicians and instructors. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, since the program began in 1997, more than 131,000 people have completed the certification course in all 50 states, DC and US territories. There are currently 36,000 certified CPS technicians. Safe Kids Worldwide records indicate that Hawai‘i currently has 252 certified technicians and 21 certified instructors statewide. Many technicians are trained health and safety professionals; others are parents and volunteers all who are deeply concerned about kids and want to ensure their safety in and around vehicles. CPS technicians and instructors put their knowledge to work through a variety of programs and activities with the goals of teaching parents and caregivers to provide hands-on assistance in the proper use of car seats, booster seats and seat belts. In Hawai‘i with the support from DOT, the Keiki Injury Prevention Coalition (KIPC) and various community partners there are safety check up sites and events on O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Maui, Moloka‘i and the Big Island, including child passenger services for children with special needs. If you would like further information about the Child Passenger Safety program and a lists of safety check up sites throughout Hawai‘i visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 

Lisa Dau, RN, BSN, IBCLC, CPSTI
Injury Prevention Coordinator for KMCWC