Safe Kids Marathon County

03/03/2026

Have questions about your child’s car seat? Wondering if it’s time to move to the next seat type (rear-facing to forward, harnessed seat to booster seat, etc.)? Want to double-check that everything is correct before a Spring Break road trip? WE GOT YOU!!!

Join us at a Car Seat Check Event at Riverside Fire on March 18. This is a FREE service, but appointments are required. Schedule an appointment here: https://aspirushealth.jotform.com/260336115959865

What to expect - During a car seat check event, a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician will:
• Check the seat for recalls
• Check that the seat is correct for your child’s age and size
• Educate on proper harnessing and correct installation in the vehicle
• Answer any car seat safety questions

*Pending emergency calls, kids may be able to check out the fire trucks!

03/03/2026

👇Must watch for parents & caregivers of teens & pre-teens! Learn more about teen mental health, signs your teen may be struggling, and ways to offer support here: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/teen/Pages/Mental-Health-and-Teens-Watch-for-Danger-Signs.aspx

02/11/2026

Kids participate in sports? The video below from our lead agency Aspirus Health is a must watch! 👇

Related FYI: There is no concussion-proof helmet, but a helmet can help protect from a serious brain or head injury. It is important to avoid hits to the head, even with a helmet. It's also very important that helmets fit properly by being well maintained, age and activity appropriate, certified for use, and worn consistently and correctly.

For more information about concussion prevention, guidelines and recommendations, free training for youth and high school coaches, and much more, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/heads-up/

01/30/2026

After nearly 2 weeks of extreme cold and being couped up indoors, everyone's excited to get back outdoors this weekend. Make sure your family stays safe while enjoying your favorite outdoor winter activities with these tips:

01/22/2026

‼️🥶 Because their bodies are smaller, kids lose heat more quickly than adults, putting them at higher risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Avoid playing outside in temperatures or wind chills below -15°F, as exposed skin begins to freeze within minutes. Learn more about cold weather safety and signs to watch out for here:

​The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) discusses how to keep kids safe when playing outside in cold weather.

01/20/2026

Even more extreme cold is heading our way at the end of the week. Plan ahead to ensure you have everything you need for your family to stay warm & cozy indoors. If you absolutely will need to go out and about, it's highly recommended to have a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. To learn what the WI Department of Transportation recommends including in your kit, visit:

A winter storm survival kit is extremely helpful should you become stranded. Consider keeping it in the back seat of your vehicle (in case your trunk jams or is frozen shut). Items to consider:

01/07/2026

Important medication safety reminder from our lead agency Aspirus Health this cold & flu season 👇

12/31/2025

New Year’s Eve celebrations should be filled with fun and festivities, not emergency department visits. Before you begin your celebrations, plan ahead for you and your family & friends to get home safely and avoid impaired driving:
~ Designate a sober driver before the celebrations start.
~ Use rideshare (Uber/Lyft), taxi, or public transit services and consider booking in advance - or at minimum, confirm operating hours.
~ Plan to stay overnight where you are celebrating or within short walking distance, such as a friend/family's place or a hotel.
~ Celebrate at home.
~ If you’re celebrating with children, whether at home or elsewhere, stay sober and alert in case of an accident or emergency.

‼️ Are your older kids/teens celebrating with friends? Talk to your kids about the dangers of underage drinking. Know where and how your child is celebrating to ensure drugs and alcohol are not involved. Talk to them about celebrating safely with these tips: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/small-talks/index.htm

Wishing everyone a safe and Happy New Year's Eve & 2026!

12/30/2025

‼️ Check out this article for important fire safety reminders related to space heaters, outlet overload, and power strips and extension cords.

The Wausau Fire Department is reminding people to be careful when using space heaters in their homes.

12/25/2025

Sending everyone holiday cheer and a few laughs. 😀🎄