Now that summer is approaching and the temperature is rising it’s a good time to review a few summer car safety tips. In 2010, forty nine children died from heat stroke after being left in cars unattended. Even the best of parents or guardians can forget their children are waiting in a vehicle. Being trapped in a hot vehicle, for even a very short time amount of time, can be a deadly situation for kids.
Since many young children are helpless when locked in a vehicle, it is up to the parent to realize these dangers and to never leave their children unattended in a car. In an effort to reduce the number of deaths, new technology is becoming available. One innovation places weights in the backseat of cars, which then beeps when someone is left behind or a seat belt is not fastened. These can serve as a helpful reminder for busy parents juggling life, work, children, etc.
Here are some simple tips to ensure a child’s safety in the backseat of the car:
1. No child left behind
Never leave a child alone in a car unsupervised. Not only can weather conditions make it dangerous, but also the possibility of predators seeing a child alone and seizing the chance to do something harmful is a scary reality.
2. Place necessities near your child as your reminder
Place something you need, such as a purse, cell phone or laptop next to your child. This will ensure you automatically go to the back seat making it an effective reminder that your child is in the back.
3. Always lock doors and store keys
For safety reasons, keep your car doors locked at all times, even when it’s parked in the garage, and store the keys out of the reach of children. Small kids can easily slip out the door and hide in cars. Don’t risk them getting trapped in the car, which can be particularly dangerous in extreme heat or cold.
4. Use drive-thru services
If you are running errands with your kids, try to utilize drive-thru services so you aren’t tempted to leave your child unattended.
5. Be aware of other children
Keeping people safe not only applies to your own children, but to others you may spot trapped in cars. If you suspect a child is in danger inside a locked car, do not hesitate to call 911, it may save a young life.
6. Know the facts
Sunlight can heat car interiors to lethal temperatures in just 30 minutes, even if the weather is relatively cool. When it’s warmer outside it heats up even faster. If it is 80° outside, a closed car or a car with the windows slightly open will heat up to 99° in 10 minutes. In an hour, it will be 123 degrees. These are deadly temperatures. Never leave your child alone in the car. Never.
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