Beaufort Memorial will host its regular monthly tour of the Collins Birthing Center from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 7.

The hospital recently completed a $6 million, three-year renovation of the facility offering expectant mothers a spacious, spa-like setting to give birth. The tour will showcase the newly refurbished facility, including the comfortable birthing and recovery suites, family-friendly waiting area, and the county’s only Level II Nursery for specialized newborn care.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Participants will also meet members of the Birthing Center staff and learn about available amenities and services which include breastfeeding support, a professional baby photographer and complimentary massages, as well as special security features.

“We’ve done away with the institutional hospital look and replaced it with a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere to make mothers and their families feel truly special,” Beaufort Memorial Director of Birthing Services Patti Valentini said.

The free tours are scheduled for the first Thursday of each month and are limited to those who are 14 years or older. Reservations are not required but it is suggested that participants arrive in the Birthing Center lobby a few minutes prior to the 6:30 p.m. start.

Following the tour, the City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department will have a child car seat safety technician available to help parents properly install their car seat. For convenience, the car seat can be left in your vehicle.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Once the tour is over, those requesting a safety check will be able to pull in front of the Birthing Center entrance for the technician to check or install the seat.

Car seat checks are also available at any City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal fire station. Call 843-525-7055 for a free appointment and for information about getting a car seat if you are not able to afford one.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

Beaufort EMS also provides free car seat checks on the first Friday of each month. Call 843-255-5368 for information and an appointment.

Visit BeaufortMemorial.org/BirthingCenter for more information about the Collins Birthing Center or the monthly tours.