Every day in 2009 an average of two children age 12 and younger were killed, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states on its website.

In 2009, an average of 340 were injured in motor vehicle traffic crashes as occupants of passenger vehicles as well, the administration states on its site.

For children ages 1 through 12, it is the leading cause of death and is part of Child Passenger Safety Week. This safety week falls during the third full week of September, which is observed Sept. 18-24 this year. During the week, parents and other caregivers across Missouri can have certified child passenger safety technicians inspect their car seats and provide advice for free.

Those interested in these services should stop by a car seat inspection station. Missouri law requires all children younger than 8 years old to be in a child safety seat or booster seat until they weigh 80 pounds or are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall.

Both the Eureka Fire Protection District and the Eureka Police Department are certified car seat inspection stations.

Although it’s a free program offered to local residents, those wanting the knowledge are required make appointments.

For additional inpsection stations NHTSA has an inspection station locator.