Truckee and South Lake Tahoe police officers along numerous other agencies nationwide, including the California Highway Patrol, will be participating in the annual Click It or Ticket campaign now through May 31.

During this period officers will be specifically looking for seatbelt violations to remind drivers to buckle up. Of particular emphasis is child restraint use. All children in a vehicle who are under the age of 8 or weigh less than 80 pounds must be in an appropriate child safety seat that is properly installed.

Authorities say approximately 90 percent of child seats they inspect are improperly installed. Call 530.582.7570 to make an appointment to have the seat inspected for free.

Here are some of the most important aspects of proper installation and use of child safety seats and other restraints:

• Your child safety seat must be securely anchored.
• If your seat belts are door-mounted, or the inboard belt buckle is too far forward, you may need a special device that helps to properly secure the seat. Ask your car dealership or call one of the inspection agencies listed above for more information.
• Do not install car seats in the front passenger seat of any vehicle. The only exception to this rule involves pickup trucks in which the front passenger airbag can be manually turned off.
• Rear-facing infant seats must not be placed in any seat protected by an air bag.
• As a normal rule, small children should not occupy seats protected by an airbag.
• Shoulder belts should restrain a child at the shoulder and should not come across the child’s throat.
• Lap belts should fit across the thighs, not around the child’s stomach.
• Some seat belts are free sliding and may need a special locking clip for security.
• For infants, a five-point harness offers the best fit. An “infant only” seat is also recommended.
• Harness straps should fit snugly over the child and should directly touch the child. Blankets or other covering can be placed over the straps. To keep the straps snug, children should wear clothing no heavier than a light jacket or sweater while in the safety seat.