CLEARLAKE, Calif. – Lake County Fire Protection District recently received a donation of 36 car seats from the Rotary Club of Clearlake.
The donation supports the department's child safety program, which provides an ongoing safety service to the public.
The program lacks in grant funding and community assistance is being sought to overcome a $2,500 shortfall in the budget.
“Car seats are one of the most important things you can do to protect your child,” Clearlake Rotarian Karen Karnatz said. “This program was struggling. We budgeted $1,500 and most all of that was spent on car seats.”
Karnatz said the donation supports the child safety program she installed during her club presidency three years ago.
She said she was pregnant at the time and wanted to bring pregnancy, birth and child resources to the community.
Karnatz said she appreciates the club's continued support, exemplifying its motto of “Service above Self.”
EMT/Paramedic Marc Hill coordinates the child safety program for the Lake County Fire Protection District.
He said trained and certified technicians inspect child safety restraints and replace them, if needed.
Free inspection events happen once a month at the district station on Olympic Drive in Clearlake.
The next one is scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon Friday, July 11.
For those who miss the free events, call the district office at 707-994-2170 for an appointment.
Hill said the program has raised $6,800 for technician training to be provided in October.
He said additional funds are needed assist in funding training instructors, certifications and other program costs.
Donation inquiries can also be directed through the district office.
Email Denise Rockenstein at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .