The Southwest Coalition of Safe communities will be celebrating Child Passenger Safety Month with several activities during the month. Coalition staff and law enforcement officers will be going into schools in Stark County this month presenting “Buckle Up with Bucky” program. A video and storybook developed by two teachers in Fargo will be used for the program. The North Dakota Department of Health ordered stickers, zipper pulls, pencils and 5” stuffed Polar Bears and pledge pads to go along with their theme of “Buckle Up North Dakota”.

The coalition and area law enforcement will be hosting a Child Passenger Safety Check at the Law Enforcement Center garage on Thursday, February 24, 2005 from 10:00 – 2:00 pm. Motor vehicle injuries are the greatest public health problem facing children today. In fact, they are the leading cause among children at every age after their first birthday. We are encouraging you to bring your child and car seat in to have it inspected by trained professionals. Register for prizes and have a cookie while we check your car safety seat.

Every year as part of Child Passenger activities the Southwest Coalition of Safe Communities gives a car safety seat to a child born on Valentine’s Day or the closest day afterwards. The coalition is happy to be doing this event again in conjunction with St. Joseph’s Hospital and Health Center.

Displays will be setup at Great Plains Clinic, Dickinson Clinic, St. Joseph’s Hospital & Health Center, St. Joseph’s Wellness Center at the Prairie Hills Mall, and Southwestern District Health Unit.

For more information about Child Passenger Safety or the activities call 227-0131.