Ms. Ihli recognized a need for permanent sites for CRD inspection and caretaker education. EMS became the home of the first Pinellas Buckles Kids Clinic. The clinics serve as a site for the parent, grandparent, or caretaker to take the motor vehicle, CRD, and children for inspection of the seat, receive educational materials, and learn how to properly install the devise without leaving their community. A certified CPS Technician and trained installers are at each clinic. Signs identifying the clinics are displayed.
Donations pay for installation supplies and help maintain the existence of the clinics.
Technician courses brought additional strength to the corps of injury prevention enthusiasts. The education and assistance will decrease CRD misuse, injuries, and fatalities. Pinellas infants and children will travel safely and all motor vehicle occupants will be properly restrained. The support from EMS Authority Director Chuck Kearns, Medical Director Dr. Bruce Pettyjohn, and Fire Chiefs has been beneficial to the success of the clinics. The classes are conducted at a fire station for each shift to enable participation without incurring overtime by fire department personnel.