The Macon County Health Department is stepping up to teach families how to ensure their kids get to their destination safely.

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Federal data shows that in recent car crashes, more than half of children are not properly buckled in.

The Macon County Health Department is stepping up to teach families how to ensure their kids get to their destination safely. 

"Even the most well-intentioned parents are making a lot of mistakes," Karen House, a trained car seat technician, said. 

In 2024, 32 children under the age of 14 died in Illinois Traffic Crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. House said there are ways to reduce the risk of deadly injuries. State law requires children to be rear-facing in a vehicle until the age of two. 

"Some mistakes we see again are the belt not tightened correctly. A lot of parents are also turning their children around too early. The longer you leave your child rear-facing, the safer they are," House added.  

Parents are urged to double-check that all straps are secure and to always perform the pinch test.  

"You should not be able to pinch anything in the shoulder strap at all," House said to keep the chest clip level to the child's armpits.  

If you want to make sure your car seat is safe, the MCHD has you covered. 

"Our program's goal is to increase proper restraint and prevent child injury. We are here to help promote and protect the community," said Director of Health Promotion and Public Relations, Emily O'Connell. 

Car seat checks from trained technicians will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday at the Macon County Health Department on a first-come, first-served basis. If you miss this Friday, the health department hosts car seat checks every Wednesday from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and from 1-3:30 p.m. 

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