Stoneham Police Awarded Child Passenger Safety Grant

A release from the Stoneham Police Department and Chief James McIntyre:

STONEHAM - The Stoneham Police Department has recently been awarded a Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Equipment Grant that will be used to purchase car and booster seats for distribution to local families in need.

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, Office of Grants and Research - Highway Safety Division awarded grants totaling nearly $170,000 to 65 local police and fire departments, regional non-profit agencies, and hospitals. The Stoneham Police Department is one of over 225 car seat inspection sites in Massachusetts, with certified technicians available to ensure children’s seats are installed correctly.

Nationwide, traffic crashes are a leading cause of death for children of all ages. Properly installed car and booster seats have been proven to reduce the risk of death and injury in crashes, yet the American Automobile Association (AAA) estimates that 75% of car seats are installed incorrectly.

“This grant helps us better serve families who find it difficult to afford car and booster seats to protect their children,” said Chief James McIntyre. “We can also assist parents and caregivers with the proper installation of their child’s seats."

If you would like to schedule an appointment for inspection to ensure your seat is properly installed in your vehicle or for installation of a new seat, please call Officer Laura Engel at 781-438-1215 x3218 or email lengel@stoneham-ma.gov.

For a full listing of car seat inspection sites statewide, please visit www.mass.gov/carseats.