In the United States, since 1998, 716 children have died due to parents or caregivers, leaving children in unattended hot automobiles. Last year, 2013, 33 children died in hot vehicles. So far this year, 17 children have died in hot cars in America.
Prevention Tips to Avoid a Tragic Heatstroke
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Never leave a child alone in a car.
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Don’t let your kids play in an unattended vehicle. Teach them that a vehicle is not a play area.
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Never leave children in a parked vehicle, even if the windows are partially open.
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If you are dropping your children off at childcare, but normally your spouse, or partner, drops them off, have your spouse call you to ensure the child was not left in the car.
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Become vigilant about looking in the vehicle before locking the door. Always look front and back before walking away!
It is important to know the risks and consequences associated with leaving children in cars — especially hot cars.
Risks
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In 10 minutes, a car can heat up 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
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In 30 minutes, a car can heat up 34 degrees.
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In 1-2 hours, a car can heat up 45 to 50 degrees.
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Cracking a window does little to keep the car cool.
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If temperatures were to be in the 60s, your car can heat up to well above 110 degrees.
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If temperatures were to be in the 80s, inside the car it would be over 130 degrees.
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In direct sunlight, the dashboard, steering wheel and other items inside the car could near 200 degrees.
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A child’s body temperature can rise up to five times faster than an adult.
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A child dies when his/her temperature reaches 107.
Consequences
The law in the state of California states:
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A parent, legal guardian, or other person responsible for a child who is 6 years of age or younger may not leave that child inside a motor vehicle without being subject to the supervision of a person who is 12 years of age or older.
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Penalties vary between a fine to time in prison.
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Child Endangerment occurs when a parent, or caregiver, causes or permits a child to suffer unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering, to be injured, or willfully causes a child to be placed in a dangerous situation, such as leaving a child inside a hot car.
BYSTANDERS
If you see a young child locked in a parked car:
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First make sure the child is okay and responsive. If not, call 911 immediately.
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If the child appears okay, you should attempt to locate the parents; or have the facility’s security or management page the car owner over the PA system.
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If the child is not responsive and appears in great distress, attempt to get into the car to assist the child, even if that means breaking a window making sure you don’t injure yourself or the child.
