Child Passenger Safety & Car Seat Checks

Making sure a child is riding in the right car seat, installed and used correctly, is an important part of keeping them safe on the road. The DeMotte Police Department is proud to offer child passenger safety education and car seat checks to families in our community.

Schedule a Car Seat Check

Officer Jesse Wallace, Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST)

Car seat checks are by appointment and take about 30 minutes per seat. Families with more than one car seat should plan for additional time.

To request an appointment, email Officer Wallace directly or call the department and leave a message for him. He will contact you to set up a time.

Email Officer Wallace Call 219-987-3344
Email: Jwallace@demottepolice.gov
DeMotte Police Department: 219-987-3344

Before We Schedule Your Appointment

To reserve enough time for your appointment, Officer Wallace asks for some basic information about your child, vehicle, and car seat before scheduling. Please have the following ready when you contact him:

  • Your name and best phone number
  • How many car seats you would like checked
  • The child's age
  • The child's approximate height and weight
  • The year, make, and model of the vehicle
  • The make and model of the car seat, if known
  • Whether the seat is rear-facing, forward-facing, or a booster
  • Any specific questions or concerns about the seat
  • General days or times that work best for you

Expecting a baby who hasn't arrived yet? Just let Officer Wallace know when you reach out.

What to Expect at Your Car Seat Check

A car seat check is more than a quick look at the seat. The goal is for you to leave knowing how to select, install, and use your child's car seat correctly every time you travel.

Seat Selection

We review whether the car seat fits your child's age, height, weight, and stage of development.

Rear or Forward Facing

We talk through the right direction for your child based on the manufacturer's instructions and current safety guidance.

Vehicle Position

We review where the seat sits in your vehicle and any considerations specific to that model.

Installation

We check the installation and go over proper use of the seat belt or lower anchors, whichever applies.

Harness Fit

We check that the harness is positioned and adjusted correctly so your child is secured properly.

Education

You'll leave the appointment comfortable installing and using the seat on your own.

What Should I Bring?

For the most helpful appointment possible, please:

  • Bring the child who will use the seat, if possible, so we can check the fit.
  • Bring the car seat owner's manual, if you have it.
  • Bring the vehicle owner's manual.
  • Bring all parts, inserts, accessories, and padding that came with the seat.
  • If possible, install the seat before you arrive using its instructions, just do your best. We'll review the installation together and answer your questions.

Please Allow Enough Time

Every check is educational and individualized to your child, vehicle, and car seat. Plan for about 30 minutes per car seat being checked. An appointment covering two car seats, for example, may take about an hour.

Helpful Child Passenger Safety Resources

These trusted resources cover choosing, installing, registering, and using child restraints.

Have a Question?

Contact Officer Jesse Wallace, CPST, at Jwallace@demottepolice.gov.

You can also call the DeMotte Police Department at 219-987-3344 and leave a message for Officer Wallace. He will return your call to answer questions or schedule an appointment.

If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.