AAA: As Temps Rise, So Do Risks for Children and Pets

With a heatwave in full effect across the Capital City, AAA is offering some safety tips to help drivers keep their children and pets safe during what is expected to be the hottest weather so far this summer.

 

Officials say excessive heat can pose great risks to people in your vehicle.

 

Within minutes inside of a car it can become dangerously hot, and presents a greater risk for heatstroke and other medical emergencies.

 

From 1998 to 2018, 795 children have died from heatstroke in hot cars according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 

Even though safety organizations put out these warning each year, children often die needlessly from these preventable tragedies.

 

Here’s some advise AAA gives.

 

-“Vehicles Aren’t Play Areas–Don’t let children play in an unattended vehicle.”

 

-“Put Keys Out of Sight–Always lock your vehicle–even in driveways and garages–and keep keys out of children’s reach.”

 

-“Make it a Habit–Before locking your vehicle, check the front and back seat.”

 

-“Keep a stuffed animal in your child’s car seat. When the child is with you, move it to the front seat as a reminder that your child is in the back.”

 

-“Set an Alarm–Consider programming an alarm on your phone that will go off to remind you to check your vehicle.”

 

-“If you see a child in the car or pet–Call 911.”

 

Pets are especially vulnerable during heat, as they can’t sweat, like humans.

 

Just a few minutes in a hot car for a dog or cat can spell possibly life-threatening consequences.

 

Your best bet with pets, is to keep them home, or bring them inside with you when possible.

 

Never leave a pet unattended in a hot car.