Ensuring the safety of children while traveling in vehicles is paramount, and California offers resources like the WIC Car Seat Program to assist families in this critical area. This program, alongside other initiatives in Riverside County, aims to educate and provide low-cost car seats to eligible residents, ensuring children are properly restrained and protected on the road.
The Low Cost Distribution Program in Riverside County stands out as a vital resource for families needing assistance with car seats. Recognizing that financial constraints can sometimes hinder access to essential safety equipment, this program specifically targets residents who qualify for low-income assistance programs such as Medi-Cal and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). By calling 1-800-455-4942, eligible individuals can begin the registration process for this program. Participants are required to attend a one-hour educational class, available in both English and Spanish, after which they receive a car seat or booster seat. These classes are held at ten different locations across Riverside County and are designed for adults only, as childcare services are not provided on site. To help sustain the program, a modest fee of $30 per car seat is required, payable in advance via money order.
For those who have received a citation for car seat or seat belt violations in Riverside County, the Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program (VOPD) offers an alternative path. This two-hour educational class allows participants to potentially reduce their fines. A requirement for the VOPD class is that individuals cited for car seat infractions must bring a federally approved car seat, free of recalls, to the session. During the class, trained professionals emphasize the critical importance of seat belt use and the serious risks associated with improperly restraining children in car seats. For more information about the VOPD program, you can contact (951) 358-7171.
Riverside County also supports the broader child passenger safety community by hosting courses for Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Technicians. These courses include both renewal programs for currently certified technicians and comprehensive five-day training for those seeking national certification. The renewal course allows expired technicians to regain their certification efficiently, while the five-day course, based on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standards, offers in-depth knowledge and hands-on practice. To connect with a certified child passenger safety technician for guidance, residents can also call 1-951-358-7171. These various programs and resources in Riverside County underscore a commitment to child passenger safety, offering education, resources, and support to ensure the well-being of young travelers.
