When you have to go out with your children be sure not to leave them in the car while you run errands. This is a situation that is dangerous and has the potential to be deadly.
Children's bodies warm much faster than an adults and they can quickly suffer the dizziness, disorientation, confusion, rapid heartbeat and unconsciousness associated with heat stroke. Even if a window is cracked, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rise about 20 degrees Fahrenheit within the first 10 minutes.
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
- Never leave a child in an unattended car, even with the windows down.
- Be sure that all occupants leave the vehicle when unloading. Don't overlook sleeping children.
- Always lock your car. 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 and 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.
- Have a plan for your childcare provider to call if your child does not show up.
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Updated: 06/29/2009