National Child Passenger Safety Week Brings Car Seat Check Events to Brevard

(Titusville, FL) - September 26, 2025- First responders, community partners, and safety advocates came together during National Child Passenger Safety Week to help local families keep their youngest passengers safe. The Healthy Start Coalition of Brevard's Child Safety Initiative Vehicular Safety Group hosted its 2nd Annual Car Seat Check Events across Palm Bay, Titusville, and Cocoa.

These free events, offered by appointment only, filled quickly, demonstrating the strong demand for child passenger safety support in the community. Caregivers who were financially qualified and did not already have a car seat were provided with one at no cost, ensuring every child had access to lifesaving protection.

"These collaborative events show how much we can accomplish when first responders, healthcare professionals, and community partners work together," said Kerri Lubeski, Life Safety Specialist with the Titusville Fire Department. "Our shared goal is to keep children safe and give parents the knowledge, confidence, and resources they need to protect their families on the road."

Palm Bay - September 23

Palm Bay Fire Rescue, in partnership with State Farm representative Weston Johnson and certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians, checked car seats and provided hands-on education for families. Qualified caregivers also received new seats to ensure safe travel for their children.

Titusville - September 24

Titusville Fire Department teamed up with technicians from Satellite Beach Fire Rescue, Healthy Start, and an independent advanced-certified technician specializing in transporting children with special needs. Families also received CPR/First Aid demonstrations from an American Red Cross-certified instructor, Narcan education from a licensed distributor, and resource bags filled with safety materials and donated children's clothing.

Cocoa - September 27

Space Coast Lactation hosted families who received car seat checks from certified technicians, including a special-needs expert. The site also featured CPR/First Aid demonstrations and Narcan distribution education. Families in need were provided with new seats to ensure every child traveled safely.

Hot Car Awareness

Each event included a hot car thermometer display, showing how quickly the inside of a vehicle heats up compared to outside temperatures. This impactful demonstration reinforced a critical safety message: never leave a child alone in a car, even for a moment.

Why These Events Matter

• In 2022, 85 child passengers died in Florida crashes-nearly half were unrestrained.
• In 2023, 74% of car seats checked by certified technicians were found installed incorrectly.
• Many children are transitioned to booster seats or adult seatbelts far too early, putting them at greater risk in a crash.

Continuing Support

Families who would like to schedule a car seat check can contact a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician in their area:

• North Brevard - Titusville Fire Department: 321-567-3804
• Central Brevard (Mainland) - Healthy Start Coalition of Brevard: 321-866-8484 (Call/Text)
• Central Brevard (Beachside) - Satellite Beach Fire Department: 321-773-4405 x301
• South Brevard - Palm Bay Fire & Rescue: 321-726-2759
• Countywide (Special Needs Expertise) - Taylor Figueroa: 321-514-0040