Three Boone County fire departments are offering free car seat inspections by certified technicians, a resource that carries new urgency after an joint analysis by AAA and the National Safety Council found most children leave safety seats and boosters too soon.

The study, released Sept. 27 during Baby Safety Month, found that only 45% of six-year-olds injured in crashes between 2020 and 2024 were properly restrained. That figure was 78% for three-year-olds, as first reported by the NKY Tribune. Inspection data also showed 86.5% of children evaluated in 2025 had moved to an adult seat belt before they were ready.

What Kentucky law requires

Kentucky statute KRS 189.125 sets two height-based thresholds. Children 40 inches or shorter must ride in a federally approved car seat. Children under eight who measure between 40 and 57 inches must use a booster seat. Once a child turns eight or exceeds 57 inches, the standard seat belt is permitted if it fits properly.

Angela Brown, senior director of driver safety training at the National Safety Council, said children ages 10 to 12 may look ready for an adult belt but often still need a booster for a proper fit.

Nearly three out of four car seats checked by certified technicians in 2025 were installed or used incorrectly, according to the AAA and National Safety Council report. The most common problems were seats installed too loosely, missing top tether straps on forward-facing models and harness straps that were not snug enough. Only one in five parents reported seeking expert help with installation.

Where to get a free inspection

The following Boone County stations offer free car seat checks, according to a Care Net of Northern Kentucky listing last updated in November 2025. Residents should call ahead to confirm hours.

  • Florence Fire/EMS: 1152 Weaver Road, Florence. Contact Joy Cutter-McVay, 859-647-5660.
  • Union Fire Protection District: 9611 U.S. 42, Union. Contact Andy Wolf, 859-384-3342. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments preferred.
  • Burlington Fire Department: 6050 Firehouse Drive, Burlington. Contact Michelle Vogelpohl, 859-586-6161. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments appreciated.

The National Safety Council also offers free virtual car seat checks through its Safety Connection program at safety-connection.org/caregiver.