SCDPS to offer car seat checks during Child Passenger Safety Week

COLUMBIA, SC. (WTOC) - According to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration about half (48%) of all child safety seats are not installed correctly.

With next week being annual Child Passenger Safety Week, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety will offer free car seat checks and advice.

“Children who are not properly restrained or in the appropriate car seat face unnecessary danger in the event of a collision,” SCDPS Director Robert G. Woods IV said. “We urge parents and caregivers to utilize the resources available to them to ensure children are correctly secured in their seat and have peace of mind while traveling. Children are our most precious cargo, and as parents, we are responsible for taking their safety seriously.”

SCDPS is partnering with the South Carolina Department of Public Health and Safe Kids South Carolina to join the Catawba Indian Nation, Shaw Air Force Base, and the Nurturing Center to offer free car seat checks.

Check out in-person activities available during Child Passenger Safety Week:

• Tuesday, September 23, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
• • Car Seat Check Event*
  • Catawba Indian Nation
  • ISWA Head Start1520 Tom Steven Rd.
  • Rock Hill, SC 29730
  • Note that you do not have to be a member of the Catawba Indian Nation to attend this event.
• Wednesday, September 24, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
• • Car Seat Check Event
  • Nurturing Center
  • 1332 Pickens St.
  • Columbia, SC 29201
• Wednesday, September 24, 2025 | 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• • Educational Booth
  • Nurturing Center
  • 1332 Pickens St.
  • Columbia, SC 29201
• Thursday, September 25, 2025 | 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• • Car Seat Check Event**
  • Shaw Air Force Base
  • 411 Polifka Dr.
  • Shaw AFB, SC 29152
  • Note that you must have access to Shaw AFB to attend this event.

The South Carolina Department of Public Health also offers free inspection stations throughout the state year-round, click here to find a location near you.