Beat the Heat, Check the Back Seat, Look Before You Lock or KISS – Keep Infants Safe and Secure all have the same message; “leaving children in cars is dangerous and even deadly reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.” Studies have shown that the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous levels for children, pets and even adults in minutes. Leaving windows slightly open does not significantly decrease the heating rate. The effects can be more severe on children because their bodies warm at a faster rate than adults.
Never Leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle. Not even for a minute! If you see a child unattended in a hot vehicle, call 9-1-1 immediately. Don’t overlook sleeping babies. Always lock your car and ensure children do not have access to keys or remote entry devices. If a child is missing, check the car first, including the trunk. 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, phone or briefcase in the back seat as a reminder that you have your child in the car. Make “look before you lock” a routine whenever you get out of the car. Ensure your child care provider follows the same and will call you if your child does not show up for school.
For additional information contact your local fire department or visit: http://www.safercar.gov/parents/heatstroke.htm
Remember, Look Before You Lock!
Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
