This manual presents guidelines for starting and running a child restraint rental program to provide car seats and safety belts. Briefly discussed are reasons for starting a child restraint loan program, how such a program works, and information on similar programs. Issues of staffing, space needs, supplies, and equipment are addressed and step-by-step instructions are presented for choosing what restraints to handle, getting the first group of restraints, deciding on rental fees, selling new restraints, helping others sell or swap restraints, and attracting customers. The typical procedures to follow in loaning a seat are outlined in detail and questions of liability and evaluation are discussed. Appendices, which comprise the bulk of the manual contain: (1) descriptions of some typical programs, (2) a list of safe infant/child restraints, (3) a list of manufacturers of child restraints, (4) an application for Michigan retailer's license, (5) sample rental forms, (6) a sample return reminder letter, (7) a guide for the publicity committee, (8) a sample news release, (9) procedures for observing the use of child restraints and safety belts, and (10) recommended audio-visual and printed materials. Two booklets from the list of 16 educational printed materials available from the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning are included.
Abstract