RALEIGH, N.C. (WAVY) — North Carolina launched Child Passenger Safety Week 2024 Monday with a free car seat giveaway.

The event hosted by Safe Kids NC, the Governor’s Highway Safety Program and State Farm provided more than 50 child safety seats to families in need at the Target in Apex’s Beaver Creek Commons.

“Child Passenger Safety Week is about raising awareness and taking action,” said Mark Ezzell, director of the N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program. “This event is a great opportunity for families to get expert help in securing their child’s seat. Every properly installed seat is a step closer to preventing tragic crashes.”

Those in attendance also received instructions on how to properly install a car seat. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, properly installed car seats can reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers.

“Properly installing child safety seats is one of the most critical ways to protect our children on the road,” said Brian Taylor, North Carolina state fire marshal. “We are committed to helping families ensure their seats are correctly installed and educating them on the importance of child passenger safety.”

For online child passenger safety resources visit BuckleUpNC.org.