Valparaiso Fire Department Receives First Source Grant

Valparaiso-Fire-Department-Receives-First-Source-Grant-2018Most people do not necessarily think of car seats when they think of the Valparaiso Fire Department, but it has been an important aspect of the fire department’s community outreach for over 12 years. The fire department operates the third busiest Permanent Fitting Station in the State of Indiana, following Indianapolis and Lafayette. It helps parents, grandparents, and other care givers install an average of 24 seats per month, with ten seats per month given away free to state-aid qualified recipients.

Statistics show that 83% of cars seats are installed incorrectly. Improper seatbelt/latch usage, expired and/or damaged car seats, and car seats that do not fit a child properly are all problems that are seen by Valpo Fire’s 14 Car Seat Technicians. Car Seat Techs are certified after taking a 32-hour course that covers all aspects of car seat installation. They maintain their certification by completing the required continuing education every two years.

Operating funds for car seats and other necessary equipment come from a $2000-$4000 Indiana Criminal Justice Department grant that the fire department receives every year. However, because the average cost of car seat is $60, not every qualified person is able to be assisted with those funds. Fortunately, a $10,000 donation by First Source Bank that was presented to the fire department by Regional Vice President Matt Vessley has helped alleviate that problem.

Hilltop Neighborhood House was a recent recipient of cars seats from the generous donation from First Source Bank. A bus that carries children to activities was recently equipped with 14 new car seats. Car Seat Tech Lt. Tim Stites and Chief Chad Dutz delivered the new seats and trained Hilltop House personnel on proper use and installation.

With the complex and ever-changing nature of some car seat installations, it only makes sense to make an appointment and have a certified Car Seat Tech ensure that the car seat that is protecting your child is installed correctly. Appointments can be made by calling the Valparaiso Fire Department at 219-462-8325.