Big Bear, Ca, September 17, 2010, 9:00am – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is marking National Child Passenger Safety Week, September 19 – 25, by educating the public about properly securing their most precious loved ones. “One of the most important jobs you have as a caretaker is keeping a child safe when riding in a vehicle,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Whether it’s a car seat, booster seat or seat belt, make sure you properly secure your children and yourself every time you get behind the wheel.” California law requires that children be properly secured in the back seat in a child restraint system until they are at least six years old or 60 pounds. “A child safety seat provides the best possible protection for children in the event of a crash,” said Commissioner Farrow. “But it’s important to make sure that the seat children are riding in is properly installed and the one best suited for them based on age and size. ”The Mom and Dad Project are taking part in National Child Passenger Safety Week, by holding a car seat safety class on September 23rd from 9:00-12:00pm. Sign ups are required, and you may qualify for a low cost or free car seat. For more information contact the Mom and Dad Project at 585-5607.