First time parents are encouraged to find local car seat class to keep babies safe

BISMARCK, N.D. - Last year, more babies were born in North Dakota in May than during any other month. For most first-time parents, there is a lot to learn, including how to safely transport a new baby home from the hospital.  

That’s why North Dakota Health and Human Services has chosen May to remind expectant and new parents about available resources to help ensure that every trip, starting with the first one home from the hospital, is a safe one for their child. 

Proper use of car seats helps keep children safe. Because many different car seats are on the market, parents may need assistance finding a car seat that is right for their child and learning how to correctly install it. Help is available throughout North Dakota. Most birthing hospitals and community partner organizations offer car seat education classes in their communities.  

“Motor vehicle injuries are a leading cause of death among children in the United States. That’s why it’s so important for parents and caregivers to choose the correct car seat for their child and to know how to correctly install it,” said HHS Child Passenger Safety Program Director Dawn Mayer.  

The risk of serious injury and death can be reduced by 80% by making sure children are properly buckled into the correct car seat, Mayer said. 

Car seat education classes teach parents and other caregivers:  

• about the installation and functions of their car seat,  
• how to properly secure their baby in the harness,  
• the benefits of keeping baby rear facing in the vehicle,  
• why reclining the car seat is so important,  
• the dangers of bulky clothing, 
• the dangers of air bags, and more.  

North Dakotans who have recently become parents or who are expecting a baby are encouraged to take advantage of a car seat safety class in their community. To find a class, see Car Seat Help on hhs.nd.gov/child-passenger-safety.