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Keep Your Children Safe from Heat Entrapment

31 July 2007

Parents running quick errands may think their cars will remain cool, but even on mild days temperatures inside vehicles can rise to dangerous levels in minutes. A young child's core body temperature can increase three to five times faster than that of an adult, causing permanent injury or death. Typically, children are quiet as heat overcomes them, so there won't be crying or other audible indications of trouble.

The family car parked in the driveway can also be dangerous. Unlocked cars pose serious risks to children who are naturally curious and often lack fear. Once they crawl in, young children don't have the developmental capability to get out. One-third of the heat-related deaths in 2000 occurred when children crawled into unlocked cars while playing and became trapped.

Tips to protect your family:

* Never leave your child in an unattended car, even with the windows down.

* Check to make sure all children leave the vehicle when you reach your destination. Don't overlook sleeping infants.

* Make sure you check the temperature of the child safety seat surface and safety belt buckles before restraining your children in the car.

* Teach children not to play in or around cars.

* Keep car keys out of reach and sight.

* Always lock car doors and trunks.

* Report children in hot cars to the police and get them medical help by dialing 9-1-1!