With record-breaking heat waves happening across the country this summer, it’s important to remember not to leave kids or animals in locked cars.
According to the organization Kids and Car Safety, there have been 10 heat-related car deaths so far this year, with several more deaths under investigation.
One of the recent tragedies occurred in Marana, Arizona, where a father is facing charges of second-degree murder for the death of his 2-year-old daughter found in the back seat of the family car during a heat wave.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that around 40 children die in similar circumstances each year.
“Unfortunately, we have seen several tragedies this week following the holiday, with many children being unknowingly left behind in vehicles due to changes in routine,” said Amber Rollins, director of Kids and Car Safety.
RELATED STORY| Auto insurance rates soaring, especially if you own these cars
Federal officials state that in about 46% of cases, a child is forgotten in the vehicle, often on the way to daycare or preschool.
Even when temperatures are in the mid-60s, the inside of a closed vehicle can quickly reach over 110 degrees, putting children at risk. In as little as 10 minutes, a child could succumb to the heat, according to the National Weather Service.
“With the recent high temperatures, we are very concerned about the coming months and the potential for more tragedy if precautions are not taken,” Rollins added.
RELATED STORY | Car dealerships revert to paper orders after cyberattacks on software provider
While remembering your child and avoiding leaving them unattended in vehicles are the best preventative measures, there is technology available to help prevent such tragedies.
Resources like rear occupant alert systems use motion detectors to activate horns, lights, and send alerts to the driver.
Volvo is working on a radar system that can detect small movements inside the vehicle.
“Three years ago, in 2021, we successfully passed a federal regulation that mandates the inclusion of hot car technology in all new vehicles,” said Rollins. “Major automakers have committed to adding back seat reminders to all models by 2025.”
