Parents across North Dakota, including those residing in Bismarck and Mandan, may be unknowingly misusing their child car seats, potentially placing young passengers at increased risk. The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services reported a significant finding from 2025: three out of every four car seats that were checked statewide were found to be used incorrectly. This statistic underscores a pervasive issue that local families in Burleigh and Morton counties should be acutely aware of, according to state health officials.
The Department of Health and Human Services highlighted several common errors observed during car seat inspections. These include incorrect harness usage, improper tether attachment to the vehicle, and the wrong application of lower anchors. Officials emphasize that while these may seem like minor details, such errors can have severe consequences for a child's safety and protection during a vehicle collision. The correct installation and consistent use of car seats are deemed critical for safeguarding children on the road.
Dawn Mayer, the child safety program director within the Public Health Division at Health and Human Services, issued a strong warning against taking shortcuts when it comes to child passenger safety. Mayer emphasized the paramount importance of strict adherence to safety guidelines, stating that "you never want to take any shortcuts" with a child's crucial safety equipment. She advised parents to consistently ensure children are properly strapped into their car seats and that the car seats are installed correctly in the vehicle every single time. This diligent approach is essential, Mayer explained, because the timing of a crash is unpredictable. She further pointed out that vehicle accidents are statistically more likely to occur closer to home, simply because people spend more time traveling within their immediate vicinities. Therefore, consistent and correct car seat usage is imperative for every journey, regardless of its length or familiarity.
For families in the Bismarck and Mandan areas who wish to confirm the proper installation and use of their car seats, certified child passenger safety technicians are available throughout North Dakota. These experts can provide thorough checks, offer personalized guidance, and ensure that car seats are installed and used according to manufacturer specifications and established safety standards. Residents seeking additional information or assistance with car seat safety checks can access resources and further details on the North Dakota Child Passenger Safety webpage, which is available through the Health and Human Services’ official website. Taking this proactive step can significantly help parents ensure their children are as safe as possible while traveling, thereby mitigating the risks associated with common car seat misuse. The consistent messaging from state health officials highlights an ongoing need for public awareness and education on this vital safety matter for all North Dakota families.
