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Union County Offers Free Child Car Seat Inspections and Bicycle Guidance

Union County, NJ – The summer recreation season is kicking into full swing, and the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders reminds residents that resources are available to help ensure safe travel by car and bicycle.

 “Child safety seats and bicycle helmets are two simple yet effective ways to prevent serious injury when riding in a car or cycling around Union County,” said Freeholder Chairman Bruce H. Bergen. “I encourage you to take advantage of programs that help ensure safety on the road for you and your loved ones.”

Union County’s Child Safety Seat Inspection Program provides free guidance for correctly installing and using car safety seats.

The program is available on a drop-in basis on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at the Garwood Rescue Squad 401 2nd Avenue in Garwood. Parents and other care givers can bring their vehicles and car seats and receive hands-on instruction from certified technicians.

Trained personnel from Union County’s Department of Public Safety are also available to present guidance on bicycle safety and the proper use of bicycle helmets to civic groups and other organizations.

 “A properly fitted helmet can make all the difference between a minor accident and a life-changing tragedy,” said Bergen.

According to the office of the New Jersey Attorney General, head injuries are the most common cause of death among bicyclists.

New Jersey state law requires helmets for persons under age 17 using a bicycles, skateboards, in-line skates and conventional roller skates.

Other bicycle safety tips include:

  • Ride in single file with traffic, not against it. Stay as far to the right as possible while keeping an eye out for sewer grates and other hazards.
  • Use hand signals when making turns: hold left arm straight out to the left for left turns, hold left hand with forearm up for right turns.
  • In case of heavy traffic or other hazards at intersections, play it safe: dismount and walk the bicycle across.

Cyclists should also take care to make themselves visible. Bright colors should be worn during the day and bicycles should have front, rear and pedal reflectors. Cycling at night should be avoided, but when necessary cyclists should wear reflective clothing and use a headlamp.

Drivers should be aware that bicycling is popular for sport, recreation and commuter travel. Be alert for bicycles on the road and be prepared to slow down or stop when necessary.

For more information about Union County’s car seat and bicycle safety programs, or to request a presentation on bicycle safety for a community group or other organization, contact Christine Marcantonio, Traffic Safety Program Coordinator at cmarcantonio@ucnj.org or 908-789-6830.    

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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