This summer is especially hot in North Texas. With the high temperatures comes heat-related health dangers to watch out for. One of the most frightening dangers is children left in hot vehicles.
Each summer, dozens of small children in the U.S die after being left in hot vehicles. The great majority of these heat-related deaths are children 3 years old and under. In almost all instances, the child was left Unknowingly by a parent or caregiver. Most parents and caregivers believe they would never be so negligent but the fact is it can happen to anyone. In almost all hot vehicle child deaths, the child was accidentally left behind by a loving and caring parent or caregiver. Changes in daily routine, physical exhaustion and stress can contribute to a child being left behind in a vehicle.
A typical vehicle can reach temperatures in excess of 110 degrees in just a few minutes on a hot day. A small child can overheat up to five times faster than an adult, resulting in fatal heat exhaustion within 10-15 minutes.
Many child safety experts believe a primary solution to these preventable deaths can be found in modern technology security alert systems. Some auto manufactures are installing systems that automatically send an audible warning to the driver as they exit the vehicle. Affordable aftermarket alert systems can easily be installed by dealerships and auto service centers.
Other than installed alert systems, there are several safety tips to consider for parents and caregivers:
- Place the child’s belongings, such as diaper bag and backpack, in the front seat next to the driver. This serves as a reminder of the little backseat passenger.
- Even if there is no child passenger, make a habit of opening the back door when you exit the vehicle. Do this every time you park and exit your vehicle.
- Make a point of insisting your child’s school or daycare call you if the child does not arrive. There are many instances where a parent of caregiver, distracted by the day’s events, drives directly to their place of work forgetting the child is with them.
- Make a habit of conversing with the child in the backseat during the drive. This keeps the driver aware of the child’s presence.
It is also important to remember children left in a vehicle is not the only cause of heat-related deaths. There are instances each year of children getting into parked cars by themselves and unable to get out. Unparked vehicles in a home driveway are especially dangerous to children. Never leave a parked vehicle unlocked. Also, make certain a child cannot exit the home by using childproof doorknobs. If a child goes missing, it is important to check inside all vehicles in the area. It is also wise to keep car keys out of reach for children.
Since 1984, Color Customs has been committed to promoting safety and the quality of life within our community. Sharing our concerns for the well-being of our children is a top concern of our entire staff.
Our commitment to Denton and the surrounding area is reflected in the highest degree of workmanship in our collision repair, paint-less dent repair, professional painting and many other services. Contact us today to learn more about our services.