Classes to teach new booster seat law

On Aug. 2, a new state law will go into effect requiring all children under the age of 8 to be restrained in a booster seat when they go on car rides.

To help families comply, the Yuma County Public Health District is hosting a series of free informational classes this month at the Main Library, 2951 S. 21st Drive, and the health district building, 2200 W. 28th St., both in Yuma.

The 15-minute classes will be offered in English and Spanish. Participants are entitled to a free backless booster seat. Supplies are limited and registration is required at 317-4580.

The new law is an extension of the current state law, which requires children up to age 5 to be restrained in a car booster seat. It allows a police officer to stop a car if a child is not properly restrained in a safety seat, and violations come with a fine of at least $50.

“The leading cause of death and injury in children 5 to 8, which the booster seat law covers, is motor vehicle crashes,” said Yuma County's Ryan Butcher, who will be teaching some of the classes.

The county is partnering with several area agencies to help raise awareness of the new law and to distribute booster seats throughout the community. They include Regional Center for Border Health, Sunset Community Health Center, Yuma Police Department, San Luis Police Department and the Arizona's Children Association.

Hillary Davis can be reached at hdavis@yumasun.com or 539-6857. Find her on Facebook at Facebook.com/YSHillaryDavis or on Twitter at @YSHillaryDavis.