Kids and Hot Cars Can Turn Into Tragedy

Submitted by the City of Elmhurst.

Heatstroke is one of the number one killers of children. The Elmhurst Fire Department along with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds parents and caregivers about the dangers of heatstroke and leaving children in hot cars.

With daytime temperatures, shooting well above 90 degrees, vehicles can heat up to above 110 degrees in minutes. Heatstroke begins when the body reaches 104 degrees; death can follow in a child when that temperature reaches 107 degrees.

Adults should always remember to “Look Before You Lock” to make sure there are no children left in the vehicle.

If a child left in a hot car, is not responsive, and appears in distress, call 911. Remove the child from the car immediately and cool the child rapidly (not with ice, but spray them with cool water).

Parents, caregivers and bystanders can work together to help end these tragic heatstroke deaths — because kids and hot cars don’t mix.