Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of injury and death for children ages 1-14. Each year more than 1,600 child occupants ages 14 and under die in motor vehicle crashes. Annually, an estimated 214,000 children ages 14 and under are injured as occupants in motor vehicle-related crashes with head and face injuries being the most common injury.

DOF conducts child passenger education to elementary age school children through our Buckle Up for Love program. Through this program, children learn the importance of seatbelts and, buckling-up and passenger safety. Participants learn proper seat belt use via a simulated vehicle car seat and have there picture taken in “The Little Red Car”. Children are provided with their picture and frame to help remind themselves, as well as there parents, the importance of ALWAYS wearing a properly fitted seat belt and using safety seats when appropriate.