How many times have you gotten in to your car in the morning headed to the office and your mind starts racing to all of the tasks that must be completed that day? Meanwhile, you totally forgot to run that errand on the way to work and you also forgot to get your briefcase out of the car upon arrival. It is very easy to get distracted and interrupted while driving. Even the best parents and caregivers can get distracted and forget a child in the back seat of a car, especially if you are not accustomed to normally transporting that child.
Here is what you need to know:
- On average, 38 children die in hot cars from heat related deaths each year
- A child’s body temperature rises 3-5 times faster than an adult’s.
- The temperature inside a car can reach 125 degrees in just minutes.
- A child dies when his or her body temperature reaches 107 degrees.
- 31% of hyperthermia deaths involve children under the age of one year and 87% of heat-related deaths are children age 3 years and younger.
Helpful tips for keeping baby safe:
- Never leave a child alone in a car, no matter how brief.
- Always place an important item like a purse, wallet or cell phone in the back seat with baby so that you have to open the back door prior to locking the vehicle.
- Create a buddy system with your spouse or partner and have them call you to confirm that the baby was dropped off at the proper childcare location.
- Do not let children play in an unattended vehicle.
- Always remember to LOOK BEFORE YOU LOCK.
For more safety tips visit Safercar.gov and Kidsandcars.org.