HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) – The Harrisonburg Fire Department is spreading holiday cheer by offering free car seat checks as part of its “12 Days of Christmas” event.

From Monday, December 9 through December 23, certified technicians will help families ensure their car seats are properly installed, providing added safety for children during the busy holiday travel season. Families who participate will also receive a $20 Walmart gift card while supplies last. This initiative is part of a larger program funded by a $12,000 grant from Safe Kids Worldwide, aimed at improving the safety of child passengers in the community.

“As we are a diverse community, it’s really important that this effort allows us to really connect with community members, provide them with resources, but also more than that, because that way they can (pass) a stress-free vacation (during) the trip,” said Lt. Erin Stehle of the Harrisonburg Fire Department.

In addition to car seat checks, firefighters are working with local organizations to distribute more than 100 car seats to families in need. The program is designed to help underserved families and ensure children are safe in their vehicles. The fire department encourages families to make an appointment as soon as possible by calling their office, with appointments available until December 23. For more information, residents can visit the Fire Department’s Fire Department. website.

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