South Whitehall Township, PA

🔍 A Child Safety Seat Inspection is a free service by appointment where a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) checks installation and safety of your child’s seat.

🚗 The Car Seat Loan Program is available to parents and caregivers of young children who cannot afford a child safety seat. Those that participate in the program borrow a new car seat from the South Whitehall Township Police Department then return the seat when they are done.

There is no residency requirement. The program is open to anyone seeking a child safety seat inspection or assistance, regardless of where they live.

Appointments are required. Email Officer Bethany Adams (adamsb@swtpd.org) to set one up.

Plan for about 30 minutes, as this gives the technician time to inspect the seat, check the vehicle installation, and answer any questions.

Yes. All inspections are by appointment, and at times there may be a waiting list. Those on the waiting list will be contacted to schedule as appointments open.

Yes. South Whitehall offers a loaner seat program for families who need a seat immediately or temporarily, as part of this service.

You should get your car seat checked by a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) in the following situations:

🗓️ Before your baby is born: Schedule a check 1–2 months before your due date to ensure the seat is installed correctly and fits your vehicle.

🛒 After purchasing a new car seat: Confirm that the seat is appropriate for your child’s age, weight, and height, and that it’s installed properly.

🚗 After installing the seat in a different vehicle: Seat belt systems and anchor points vary between vehicles, which can affect installation.

🔁 When moving to the next stage: For example, transitioning from rear-facing to forward-facing or from a harnessed seat to a booster.

🚨 After a car accident: Even in minor collisions, a car seat may be compromised. A CPST can help determine if it needs replacement.

❓ If you have questions or concerns: Any time you're unsure about installation, harness fit, or general use, a check can provide peace of mind.

📏 As your child grows: Periodic checks ensure the car seat continues to offer proper protection as your child’s size and needs change.

Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) from the South Whitehall Township Police Department.

Our current CPST is Officer Bethany Adams. She has received training through the National Child Passenger Safety Certification Program.

The inspection and loan program are completely free.

Being prepared will help you get the most out of your appointment and leave confident that your child is traveling safely. Please bring:

1. Your child (if possible): This allows the technician to check harness fit and make adjustments specific to your child’s size.
2. Car seat manual: Instructions for proper use, weight/height limits, and installation methods.
3. Vehicle owner’s manual: Especially the section on child safety seat installation (typically in the "Safety" section).
4. The car seat itself: Already installed, if possible—this allows the CPST to evaluate your current setup.
5. Any extra car seat parts: Such as locking clips, tethers, inserts, or bases (if it's an infant seat).
6. Questions or concerns: Write them down ahead of time so you don’t forget to ask.

💡 Helpful Tip: Make sure your vehicle is relatively clean in the back seat area so the technician can access anchor points and seat belts easily.

Yes! You can find a car seat inspection station or loaner program near you by visiting the PA Kids Travel Safe website. This resource provides a statewide directory of certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs), inspection sites, and available services based on your location.