Patrols Over Safe Streets Everywhere (P.O.S.S.E.)

Since 1993, the Kenner Police Department has spearheaded its own comprehensive Community Traffic Safety program, placing special focus on occupant protection and DWI, and enforcing laws against serious traffic infractions such as speeding and running red lights.  The program, entitled "Patrols Over Safe Streets Everywhere" (P.O.S.S.E.), is partially funded through state and federal grants.  The department contributes the majority of the funds.  The program is not only about enforcement - it also includes education and awareness of traffic safety and prevention of injuries and fatalities associated with motor vehicle crashes.  The P.O.S.S.E. program has drastically reduced traffic fatalities in the city of Kenner. 

Child Safety Seat Program

In 1999, the Kenner Police Department, through the P.O.S.S.E. program, implemented a proactive child safety program and was the first local law enforcement agency to have its own certified child safety seat technicians.  The department was also the first in the area to include a Spanish-speaking technician as part of its staff.  These technicians, who are police officers and civilians, instruct parents on how to install child safety seats properly and are certified by completing the Standardized Child Passenger Safety Training Program, which is the approved curriculum of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).  The technicians must update their certification and skills annually by completing two tests - one is a written exam and one requires technicians to demonstrate their skills.  The Kenner Police Department is listed on the NHTSA website as a permanent fitting station, which means that it performs installations all year, by appointment, for Kenner residents.

Any caregiver, including grandparents, who transports a child under the age of 8 should make an appointment and have one of our five certified technicians assist them with their child safety seat installation.  An installation performed by a trained and certified technician guarantees improved safety for children in the event of a motor vehicle crash.

Due to new technology and confusing installation directions, the rate of child safety seat misuse is very high.  For example, when LATCH began appearing in motor vehicles, many parents were under the assumption that proper installation meant attaching the child safety seat using both the LATCH anchors and the vehicle seat belt.  This is very dangerous and should not be attempted.  If you have any questions about proper installation, the child seatbelt law, or to make an appointment for this free inspection, please call Officer George Ruiz at (504) 712-2257.

Next Page

Home