As summer approaches, it’s important to keep heat safety top of mind. Every year, children die from heat stroke from being left in a hot car, with the majority occurring in children 3 and under.
From USA Today: “Besides car crashes, heatstroke is the leading cause of death in vehicles for children ages 14 and under… Temperatures inside cars can soar as high as 130 degrees, even when external temperatures are much lower, as direct sunlight heats objects inside the car. The body’s natural cooling methods, like sweating, begin to shut down once the body’s core temperature reaches around 104 degrees. Death can occur at 107 degrees.”
Here are a few tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics for parents. Note that older children and heat stress is discussed as well.
In cars with infants or young children:
- Always check the back seat to make sure all children are out of the car when you arrive at your destination.
- Avoid distractions while driving, especially cell phone use.
- Be especially aware of kids in the car when there is a change from the routine, i.e. someone else is driving them in the morning, you take a different route to work or childcare.
- Have your childcare provider call if your child has not arrived within 10 minutes of the expected arrival time.
- Place your cell phone, bag or purse in the back seat, so you are reminded to check the back seat when you arrive at your destination.
- The inside of a car can reach dangerous temperatures quickly, even when the outside temperature is not hot. Never leave a child alone in a car, even if you expect to come back soon. Lock your car when it is parked so children cannot get in without supervision.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Plan for extra rest time – heat and a change from the normal routine leaves kids and parents feeling tired.
Ready.gov has even more tips for dealing with extreme heat.
