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MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ – On Saturday, June 7, Middlesex County officials joined the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office at a new Car Seat Safety Clinic in Perth Amboy, where certified child passenger safety technicians provided free car seat inspections, hands-on education, and crucial safety resources to families. In total, 11 car seats, along with diapers and other essential supplies, were distributed to families in need. Launched in spring 2024, the Car Seat Safety Clinic initiative, led by Sheriff Mildred S. Scott, is part of the County’s broader efforts to promote public safety and traffic injury prevention, especially among the most vulnerable road users—children.

This community-centered event brought together Sheriff Mildred S. Scott, County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios, County Commissioner Deputy Director Shanti Narra, County Commissioner Charles Kenny, County Commissioner Chanelle Scott McCullum, and Clerk Nancy J. Pinkin alongside partners from the Perth Amboy Police and Fire Departments, and Connect NJ.

“Protecting the health and safety of all Middlesex County residents—especially our children—is one of our highest priorities,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to equity and public safety by ensuring that every family, regardless of income, has access to life-saving tools and trusted information to keep their children safe. On behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, I extend my deepest thanks to Sheriff Scott and her dedicated team for leading this critical effort.”

“There’s no question—properly installed car seats save lives,” said Middlesex County Deputy Director Shanti Narra, Chair of the County’s Public Safety and Health Committee. “This clinic not only provided free car seats but also the expert guidance families need to use them correctly. And remember, everyone in the car, including adults, needs to buckle up on every ride using the right car seat, booster seat, or seat belt. Safety starts with smart habits.”

“Child passenger safety starts with the right seat and the right fit, but it doesn’t end there,” said Middlesex County Sheriff Mildred S. Scott. “Events like these not only empower parents with knowledge and resources, but also give them the confidence and know-how to protect their children on the road. I’m proud of our officers, our community partners, and the residents who took the time to prioritize safety. We’re excited to continue offering these clinics throughout the year.”

“Safe transportation is about more than infrastructure—it’s about education, access, and accountability,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Charles Kenny, Chair of the Transportation Committee. “The County’s Vision Zero initiative is more than a goal—it’s a commitment. Programs like this car seat clinic are a vital part of that strategy, giving residents the tools to prevent tragedy.”

The Sheriff’s ongoing free Car Seat Safety Clinics support Middlesex County’s Vision Zero initiative, a data-driven plan to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The County also recently launched “60 to Zero,” a public service campaign aimed at reducing distracted driving, which is the leading cause of fatal crashes in the region. To learn more, take the pledge, and help Middlesex County reach zero traffic fatalities, visit discovermiddlesex.com/VisionZero.

Upcoming Car Seat Safety Clinics

The Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office is offering free checkups at the Perth Amboy YMCA at 357 New Brunswick Ave, Perth Amboy, on the following dates:

• Wednesday, June 11 l 3:30-7:30 pm
• Wednesday, June 18 l 3:30-7:30 pm
• Saturday, June 28 l 9 am-1 pm

Weekday appointments are also available at the Middlesex County Sheriff's Office, 701 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, from 8 am to 2 pm. Call Brittney Brodniak at 732-745-3375 to schedule.

Car Seat Safety: Quick Dos and Don’ts

With vehicle crashes being the leading cause of death of children over 6 months old in the United States, below are a few Dos and Don’ts of car seat safety from the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office:

DO:

• Use a child safety seat for every trip, no matter how short.
• Place children under 13 in the back seat.
• Follow all manufacturer instructions for installation and use.
• Make sure harnesses are snug.
• Ensure all occupants wear seat belts—it’s the law in New Jersey.

DON’T:

• Never hold a child on your lap while riding.
• Don’t reuse a car seat that’s been in a crash.
• Don’t use car seats that are not federally approved or have expired.

For more information about the upcoming Car Seat Safety Clinics, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/carseat.

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