WA CPS Update
WASHINGTON CPS SUMMIT
It was an amazing time at this year’s Child Passenger Safety Summit in Tacoma. We had the most attendees ever with reaching close to 150 over two days. Thank you to everyone for completing the evaluations so we can improve next years event. Speaking of next year…SAVE THE DATES of March 25, 2025 for CPST Instructors and March 26, 2025 for all technicians. We will again be gathering in Tacoma.
If you have not done so already, be sure to submit for reimbursement for travel expenses incurred for attendance in March 2024.
CPST COURSE SCHEDULE
We have had a very busy year so far with more on the schedule! Breaking records with 18 CPST courses held/planned for fiscal year 2024. Included in the course schedule; three providing training opportunities for tribal members and supporting service providers for Spokane, Muckleshoot and Yakama. Spokane’s course was held in April; Muckleshoot will be in June; and the plan is for the one in Yakima County in September. We have been fortunate to partner with Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board who has paid registration fees and provided child restraints to native families in the community.
NATIONAL HEATSTROKE PREVENTION
May 1st was a day dedicated to spreading education to prevent heatstroke in vehicles. You may still be sharing information from https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/safety-topics/child-safety/vehicular-heatstroke-prevention or Heatstroke or Heatstroke. Please remember to complete the tracking form (attached) and return to me. I will be compiling all of your outreach after the end of May.
NDCF Q & A SESSIONS
An invitation was sent to every technician in Washington for an opportunity to ask your questions about using the National Digital Check Form. You can attend one or both!
May 21st 10:00am Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86924871072?pwd=VGN1M04zSTVqZmpvTVZuWlBFVW9TUT09
May 22nd 12:00pm Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83217391497?pwd=ZlZNcnlkSDlYeWN1Ukp3N0hWOTl5Zz09
Every technician should have an NDCF account. If you haven’t set it up; here’s how: https://carseatcheckform.org/sites/default/files/inline-files/Creating_new_account_FINAL.pdf
RECERTIFICATION
For those needing continuing education units (CEUs) – here is a great place to find virtual education opportunities. https://carseateducation.org/course-catalog
Wanting to obtain your seat sign-offs and trouble locating an instructor or tech proxy; schedule a virtual session at https://carseateducation.org/cpst-resources
VALUABLE RESOURCES
As a technician, you are likely aware of the amazing resources produced by Safe Ride News such as the Latch Manual and regularly scheduled publications. I encourage you to visit their website as there are other great items available. Check out the information on seat belt positioning clips, using short lap/shoulder belts with euro-routing, belt shortening clips (remember those?), and the switchable retractor technique to avoid seat tilting. https://www.saferidenews.com/resources/safe-ride-news-puCblications-video-and-visual-tips/
CAR SEAT BASICS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT
The resource below was recently shared with all Target Zero Managers who were asked to take the lead by sharing with their regions law enforcement agencies. It is important they access the training by using the QR code or visiting www.wacarseats.com. The item is intended for email distribution, however, I do also have index card size promotional materials available. You can email me and request for distribution. The training includes a short introduction which covers Washington State law and resources; then continues to the standard national training. Please work with your TZM and assist in providing this valuable resource for officers.