When summer temperatures start rising, so does the risk of heat-related injuries for children and pets left in vehicles. And with a heat advisory issued today for North Mississippi and other parts of the state, it’s especially important.
Media reports of more than 600 child deaths from 1998-2013 show that 52 percent were “forgotten” by caregivers; 29 percent were playing in unattended vehicles; and in 18 percent of the deaths, an adult intentionally left the child in a vehicle. In just three minutes, car interior temperatures can soar from 78 to 100 degrees, putting children in danger of hyperthermia or heatstroke. If you see an unattended child or pet in a car, call 911 immediately.
American Medical Response and Lifeguard urge North Mississippi residents and other nearby communities to keep children and pets safe in and around cars during the summer. Here are some tips:
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Never leave a child in the car, even to run a quick errand
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Don't take your pet "on a ride" if they can’t come inside
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Use drive-thru options whenever possible
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Open a back door each time you park to ensure all passengers are out of the vehicle
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Always lock an unattended car
Find out more about car safety for children by visiting www.KidsAndCars.org.