Full Notification

Since 1998 at least 532 children have died nationwide from being left in a hot car. Half of these were children that were forgotten by a parent or other caregiver, and nearly 20 percent died when parents knowingly left their child in a vehicle. The rest died playing in an unattended vehicle.

All of these tragic deaths are preventable! Remember to check for small children in a car seat and to never leave children unattended in a vehicle- even for a few moments. Remember that pets should also never be left in a vehicle during the summer months.

Summer Car Safety Tips:
- Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle. Not even for a minute!
- If you see a child unattended in a hot vehicle, call 911 immediately!
- If a child is missing, always check the pool first, and then the car, including the trunk.
- Be sure that all occupants leave the vehicle when unloading. Don't overlook sleeping babies.
- Always lock your car and ensure children do not have access to keys or remote entry devices.
- Teach your children that vehicles are never to be used as a play area.
- Keep a stuffed animal in the car seat. When the child is put in the seat, place the animal in the front with the driver.
- Or, place your purse or briefcase in the back seat as a reminder that you have your child in the car.
- Make "look before you leave" a routine whenever you get out of the car.
- Ensure your child's school and/or child care provider will call you if your child does not show up for school.

Sheriff Victor Hill