LOUISVILLE, Ky. — National Child Passenger Safety Week aims to increase awareness for parents and caregivers about the importance of correctly buckling children in the right seats for their age and size.

According to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration 46% of car seats are misused.

Car seats are made to keep little ones safe on the road. However, there are many common issues with properly fitting your car seat.

When picking out a car seat, be sure to check for a label that says “This restraint is certified for motor vehicles and aircraft.” That means the car seat meets or exceeds U.S. federal safety standards.

Louisville Metro Fire Department’s Capt. Donovan Sims says it takes more than a car seat to keep little passengers safe in on the road. 

“No texting and driving. Be cautious, be aware of the road, be aware of your surroundings. The weather is getting nice and cool, we still don’t want to leave our kids in the car. I know it’s not hot anymore, but you don’t want to do that. That’s just not safe,” said Sims. 

This week certified child passenger safety technicians are offering car seat check-ups throughout Kentucky. Locations include Pikeville, Louisville and Prestonsburg.

Other locations include

• Tuesday, Sept. 19
  Walmart in Pikeville
  254 Cassady Blvd. 
  11 a.m.–1 p.m. EDT

• Wednesday, Sept. 20 
  Southwest Regional Library in Louisville
  9725 Dixie Highway
  9 a.m.–1 p.m. EDT

• Wednesday, Sept. 20
  Manchester Fire Department
  207 Church St. 
  10 a.m.–1 p.m. EDT

• Friday, Sept. 22
  Prestonsburg Fire Department
  200 N. Lake Drive
  9 a.m.–12 p.m. EDT

• Saturday, Sept. 23
  Fayette County Safe Kids
  2333 Alumni Park Plaza
  9 a.m.–11 a.m. EDT

For more car safety information and to get a car seat inspected by an expert, go to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration website.