The Benson Police Department has been officially designated as a Permanent Checking Station for Child Restraints, by SafeKids NC and BuckleUp NC. This designation means that members of the public can come to the Benson Police Department during scheduled hours, and have their child restraints inspected, replaced if necessary, and installed by officers who are nationally certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians. The Benson Police Department Permanent Checking Station now joins the Partnership for Children – Johnston County office, located in Selma, as the only local agencies to provide this service.
Captain Greg Percy of the Benson Police Department said, “In national studies, traffic collisions have been determined to be the number one cause of death for children age three and over. As an agency, we support and encourage the use of child restraints, as evidenced by the four certified technicians we have on staff, and two additional officers will become certified this month. We are offering this service to our community, and our county, to increase the proper use of child restraints, and to help save innocent lives.”
“It is important that parents and caregivers know they have trained Child Passenger Safety Technicians in their corner to help them keep their child as safe as possible while in the car,” said Jennifer Williams of the Partnership for Children – Johnston County. “Correctly used, car seats can reduce the risk of death by as much as 71 percent. We are excited to have the Benson Police Department join us as a Permanent Checking Station for Johnston County residents. “
“Properly restraining a child in a car is one of the most important safety decisions a parent can make, and it’s one they face each and every single day,” said Bill Hall, manager of the Occupant Protection Program based at the UNC Highway Safety Research Center. “As parents, sometimes we just need a little support to know we’re making the best choices, and now Child Passenger Safety Technicians at the Benson Police Department can help parents be sure they’re using the right seat for their kids, that all car seats are correctly installed, and that the whole family is as safe as possible. We commend the Benson Police Department for making the commitment to offer this valuable service to the citizens of Benson and Johnston County.”
The Benson Police Department Permanent Checking Station operational hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00am until 4:00pm. Evening hours from 6:00pm to 10:00pm and weekends are also available by appointment only. The public may call 919-894-2091, during normal business hours to schedule an appointment, or for additional information.
