One of the last items remaining to check off of our To-Do List was to have our infant car seat installation inspected. Today, we went to Kapiolani Medical Center to have a professional make sure we installed the car seat properly.

Hubby is very meticulous and will actually read the instructions when assembling or installing things, especially if safety is an issue. The inspector took half an hour with the couple ahead of us, apparently running into trouble or perhaps fixing problems with their installation. When she got to us, it took all of five minutes as she praised Hubby for his handiwork. “You’re the first one who passed the inspection today,” she said. “About 90% of people don’t install their car seat correctly.” I was so proud of him.

She showed us how to buckle in our baby, ensuring that the straps are right above the shoulder (no gap) and the harness should go right across the chest, aligned with the armpits. She also explained how to properly use the different positions of the car seat — for when it is used as a carrier, as a stationary seat for baby, and when it is snapped into the base in the car. It was all very useful information and having the installation inspected gave us peace of mind knowing that Baby Champuru will be safe on her ride home from the hospital.

Expectant moms and new parents, have you gotten your car seat installation inspected? If not, here are the inspection stations on Oahu. They are by appointment only and they get booked well in advance, so make sure you call early — call two months ahead if you can.

Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children
1319 Punahou Street, Honolulu
Ph. 808-535-7000

Queens Medical Center
1301 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu
Ph. 808-537-7117

Kalihi-Palama Health Center
915 N. King Street, Honolulu
Ph. 808-848-1438

Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center
86-260 Farrington Highway, Waianae
Ph. 808-696-1548

Rehabilitation Services Dept.
(Sepcial Needs child passenger safety)
Ph. 808-483-4917

Tripler Army Medical Center
(Military beneficiaries by appointment, DoD employees on space available basis)
Ph. 808-433-6434

Marine Corp Base Hawaii
(Military, dependent and civilian base employees)
Ph. 808-257-1830

For more information about child passenger safety, call 808-537-9200 or visit the Keiki Injury Prevention Coalition/Safe Kids Hawaii website.

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