Some things should never, ever happen. Leaving a child in a parked car, even if the windows are open, is one of those things.
And don’t leave pets in that dangerous situation either.
Despite the many warnings and, tragically, the child deaths reported due to being left in a hot car, there are still those who take the chance. Again, don’t.
Here’s what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says about infants and children and heat:
Keep children cool and hydrated
- Dress infants and children in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Make sure they drink plenty of fluids. Avoid really cold drinks or drinks with too much sugar.
- Follow additional tips on how to prevent heat-related illness.
Never leave children in a parked car
- Even when it feels cool outside, cars can heat up to dangerous temperatures very quickly.
- Leaving a window open is not enough: Temperatures inside the car can rise almost 20 degrees Fahrenheit within the first 10 minutes.
- Children who are left unattended in parked cars are at greatest risk for heat stroke, and possibly death.
Tips for traveling with children
- Never leave infants or children in a parked car, even if the windows are cracked open.
- When leaving your car, check to be sure everyone is out of the car. Do not overlook any children who have fallen asleep in the car.
Visit the CDC’s website for information on symptoms of heat-related illness.