Bedford First Responders Warn Against Leaving Children, Pets In Hot Cars

BEDFORD, MA – Bedford Police Chief Robert Bongiorno and Fire Chief David Grunes issued a reminder to families and caregivers this week to never leave a child, pet or any other vulnerable individual in a hot car. An average of 37 children die of heat stroke each year in the United States after being left alone in a hot car, according to non-profit Kidsandcars.org.

The Bedford police and fire departments routinely respond to incidents in which children or pets are accidentally left in a car or when a passerby reports someone alone in a hot vehicle, according to a release.

"Children are more vulnerable to heat than adults are," Grunes said. "Even if it’s not a 95-degree day, vehicles heat up to unhealthy temperatures in a matter of minutes."

On a hot day, the temperature inside a car can reach 125 degrees in minutes. The majority of deaths occur when a parent or caregiver forgets a child in the car, but children can also get into cars on their own without a parent's knowledge.

Bedford first responders issued the following facts about hot car deaths:

• Children suffer from the effects of heat faster than adults
• Nearly 90 percent of children killed in hot cars are under age 3
• Cracking windows open does not make a difference
• The outside temperature does not always matter. According to org, children have died in cars with outside temperatures as low as 60 degrees.

Families and caregivers should keep in mind these preventative tips:

• Always check the back seats of your vehicle before your lock it and walk away.
• Keep a stuffed animal or other memento in your child’s car seat when it’s empty, and move it to the front seat as a visual reminder when your child is in the back seat.
• If someone else is driving your child, or your daily routine has been altered, always check to make sure your child has arrived safely.

"As public safety officials, the heath, safety, and welfare of all residents, especially children and babies, is our most important mission," Bongiorno said. "Not only is it dangerous to leave a child in a hot car, it is also a crime. Please read and understand this vital information, as it might save a precious life."

If you see a child left in a car, take action immediately. Do not wait for the driver to return or assume that someone will be back soon. If the child appears to be in distress, get them out of the car immediately and dial 911. Pets should not be left alone in hot cars, as they can suffer even on moderately warm days.

Pet owners may be subject to fines and possible prison time if pets are left in a hot vehicle.

Image via Humane Society