More than 10% of the population at the Pueblo del Rio public housing development is children under 8 years old who would require a car seat or booster chair. This is the reason why the Resident Advisory Council (RAC) at the site was pleased to invite the State Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and the Housing + Community Investment Department (HCIDLA)for an on-site Child Passenger Safety Program workshop. Certified Child Safety Technicians from HCIDLA led the workshop.
Councilmember Curren D. Price joined parents to highlight the change in the law that requires rear facing seats for all children up to age 2 or weighing 40 lbs. Failure to follow this law can result in fines up to $600.00. The process of electing the proper seat for a child based on age, height, and weight can be difficult. Liliana DeLa Torre of HCIDLA demonstrated the proper use by getting assistance from a child audience member. This amendment to the law is a response to the fact that California ranks #2 in the nation for vehicle related child injuries and deaths.
The free event was cohosted by LAPD Newton Division and HCIDLA. The workshop catered to both Spanish and English attendees.