Officer Ryan Kuffel of the Eden Prairie Police Department is making a significant impact in promoting child passenger safety through her involvement in community events and car seat checks. With the recent implementation of Minnesota’s new car seat law, which mandates that children under 2 years old be secured in rear-facing car seats, Kuffel’s expertise and dedication to this cause are more important than ever.
The new law, effective as of August 1, aligns with expert recommendations to enhance safety for young passengers in vehicles. By requiring children to remain in rear-facing car seats until at least age 2 or until they outgrow the seat’s height or weight limits, the law aims to provide better protection during crashes. Officer Kuffel, who is certified to conduct car seat checks, fully supports this updated regulation.
In a statement, Kuffel emphasized the life-saving benefits of rear-facing car seats for young children. She explained that in the event of a crash, rear-facing seats absorb the energy that would otherwise impact a child’s neck and spinal cord, protecting these critical areas. This positioning is crucial for ensuring the safety of young passengers during collisions.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, children should transition to forward-facing seats with an internal harness after outgrowing their rear-facing seats. They should continue to use booster seats until at least age 9 or until they meet the criteria for a proper seatbelt fit. Additionally, it is recommended that children under 13 sit in the back seat, the safest location in a vehicle during a collision.
While many parents strive to adhere to these guidelines, Officer Kuffel noted that some may have misconceptions about the comfort and safety of rear-facing seats. She emphasized the importance of keeping children rear-facing for as long as possible, as it is the safest option for young passengers. Kuffel also highlighted common installation mistakes, such as failing to achieve the correct 45-degree angle for rear-facing seats and ensuring proper seat securement without placing items under the seat.
In line with recommendations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Kuffel advised parents to continue using rear-facing seats until children reach the weight limit specified by the car seat manufacturer. While enforcement of these guidelines can be challenging, she stressed the importance of prioritizing child safety in vehicle transportation.
With the updated guidelines for booster seats, Kuffel explained that children can now stop using them once they reach age 9 and have outgrown the seat. This adjustment simplifies the requirements for booster seat usage and ensures that children transition to using seatbelts appropriately.
To further educate and assist parents in ensuring their child’s safety in vehicles, the Eden Prairie Police Department is hosting a free car seat clinic on September 14 at Eden Prairie Fire Station No. 1. Officer Kuffel will be available to provide guidance and conduct car seat checks to ensure proper installation and fit. This event offers an opportunity for parents to receive personalized assistance and information on child passenger safety.
In conclusion, Officer Ryan Kuffel’s dedication to promoting child passenger safety through community events and car seat checks is commendable. By raising awareness about the importance of proper car seat usage and adherence to safety guidelines, she plays a vital role in safeguarding young passengers on the road. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of resources like the upcoming car seat clinic to ensure their child’s safety and well-being during travel.