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1. Why should I use a child safety seat?

Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death and serious injury among children under the age of 6 in Merced County. Child safety seats protect children during a vehicle collision.

2. Does Health Department offer classes in other languages?

Yes, we offer classes in Spanish, reservations are required. Translation is available upon request in Hmong and Punjabi.

3. Does the Health Department offer classes in other languages?

Yes, we offer classes in Spanish, Hmong, and Punjabi if needed. reservations are required

4. What children need to be in a child safety seat?

Babies and young children must ride in the back seat, properly buckled up in a safety seat or booster until they are at least 8 years old. A child under age 8 who is at least 4’9” tall could wear a safety belt if it fits properly. Infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing child safety seat until they are at least 2 years old. Additionally, all children 6 years of less may not be left alone in a vehicle. The child must be supervised by someone at least age 12.
CA Child Safety Seat Code

5. Who do I call if I have questions about my child's car seat?

Department of Public Health
Ph:(209) 381-1136

6. Why is it important that I know how to properly use my child safety seat?

Child safety seats, when installed properly, save lives. 98% of the child safety seats are installed incorrectly.

7. Why should I talk to Public Health Technicians about my child safety seat?

Public Health Technicians are trained and certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to check and install any child safety seat, they get the most up-to-date information on any seats that are recalled and new laws, and are experts on child safety seats.