According to V.I. Code tit. 20, § 266 (2019), all new babies leaving the hospital must be appropriately secured in a rear-facing child car safety seat. As such, the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety (VIOHS) partnered with the Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center (JFL) on Child Passenger Safety (CPS) through the Occupant Protection Program. Through this program, VIOHS launched the New Life Project aimed to engage, educate, and support parents of newborns on CPS and safe installation of car safety seats at local hospitals. Beyond the New Life Project, the program also extends to the pediatric unit, where staff can educate, re-educate and bring awareness to CPS.
On Tuesday, February 21, 2024, Ms. Denise Gomes, VIOHS Occupant Protection Coordinator, met with key stakeholders from JFL (Pediatrics, NICU, & Labor/Delivery/Postpartum Nurse Managers, Case Manager, and Administration) to discuss the roll out of the New Life Project and the newly executed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
As a liaison between VIOHS and our patients, we are appreciative of the opportunity to be a part of the Occupant Protection Program. JFL aims to help propel the program and make a positive impact on the lives of our children. Remember, buckle our babies and children, it saves lives!
