JEFFERSON CITY, MO - Car crashes are the number-one killer of children 1 to 12 years old in the United States. In 2011, 12 children in Missouri under the age of 8 were killed, and 1,778 were injured in traffic crashes.

During Child Passenger Safety Week, Sept. 16-22, parents and child caregivers are encouraged to participate in a safety seat check up and find out from experts how best to protect their kids. The annual campaign includes education on proper safety seat installation and use as well as increased law enforcement cracking down on Missouri's child safety seat law violators.

The wide range of car seat models on the market today leaves more than a few parents confused. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration study revealed that nearly 75 percent of parents don't know how to use child safety restraints properly. Child Passenger Safety Technicians in Missouri report an even higher misuse rate.

"Appropriate car seats are very important for kids' safety.  Missouri law requires all children under eight to be in an appropriate child safety seat or booster seat, unless they are at least 80 pounds or 4 feet 9 inches tall," said Leanna Depue, executive committee chair for the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety. "It's also very important to change seats to accommodate their growing bodies."

"Properly securing your child in a safety seat is about more than following the law though," Depue said. "Safety seats prevent serious injuries and could save your child's life.

National Seat Check Saturday is Sept. 22.  Technicians will provide on-site car seat checks and education at locations throughout Missouri. To find a safety seat check event in your area, visit seatcheck.org. For more information visit saveMOlives.com  Buckle Up and Arrive Alive.

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