Just because your toddler is riding in a car seat, doesn't mean he or she is safe.

Last year, state officials found 86 percent of the child safety seats they inspected were improperly installed in the vehicle, making them less effective in an accident. That's why Project 8, South Dakota's child safety seat program, is urging parents and caregivers to attend free safety seat checks across the state during National Child Passenger Safety Week on Sept. 12-18.

In Rapid City, free inspections will be available Friday, Sept. 18, at McKie Motors.

Nationwide, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 3 to 6 and 8 to 14. According to the National Highway Safety Administration, about 360 children younger than 5 years old were saved by using child safety seats and booster seats in 2007.

According to a news release from Project 8, child restraints provide the best protection for children up to age 8. After a child reaches 40 pounds, a booster seat should be used until the child is 8 years old and can ride safely in a seatbelt.

Project 8 also distributes infant seats, toddler seats and booster seats to South Dakota families who meet income eligibility requirements.

If you go

What: Free child safety seat inspections

When: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, Sept. 18

Where: McKie Motors at the corner of Omaha Street and East Boulevard.

More information: Anyone who can't attend that event can contact Early Childhood Connections at 342-6464 or (888) 999-7759 to schedule an appointment. You can also e-mail ecconn@rushmore.com.