Free Car Seat Safety Checks in Hampton Roads
Quick answer
Most car seats are installed incorrectly, so a free check by a certified technician is one of the smartest things you can do before baby arrives. In Chesapeake, any fire station will inspect or install your seat at no cost, and certified checks are available across the 757. Aim to have it done by about 36 weeks.
Chesapeake
Child safety seats can be installed or inspected at any City of Chesapeake fire station, free of charge, generally between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. It is worth calling the station first to make sure a certified technician is on shift. See the City of Chesapeake child safety seat page.
Virginia Beach
The Virginia Beach Fire Department Office of Life Safety offers free car seat checks and installation help with a certified technician — by appointment only. Call 757-385-2878 or book online at vbfdlifesafety.com/car-seat-safety.
Norfolk & region-wide
- CHKD Child Passenger Safety Program. Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters runs a car seat safety program for the region — call 757-668-8655 with questions or to find a check.
- Virginia Safety Seat Check Stations. The state maintains a directory of certified check stations with free, hands-on help. Find one near you at the VDH child passenger safety page.
Before you go
- Bring the seat and the manual — both the car seat manual and your vehicle's owner manual help the technician.
- Install it yourself first if you can. The point is to learn, so they can show you what to adjust rather than just doing it for you.
- Check the expiry date. Car seats expire — usually six to ten years from manufacture. An expired or crash-involved seat should not be used.
- Call ahead. Not every station has a certified technician on every shift; a quick call saves a wasted trip.
- Remember the rules. Rear-facing as long as possible, and no bulky coats under the harness in our Hampton Roads winters.
💛 One less thing to worry about
Get the seat sorted early and it is off your list well before the hospital bag is packed. When you are ready to meet your little one, we will be here.