Heat and Car Safety

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The temperature inside a car can heat up quickly creating an environment that could seriously harm or even kill a child. When the outside air temperature is 23 degrees Celsius, the temperatures inside a vehicle can be extremely dangerous - more than 50 degrees Celsius. Opening the window slightly does not keep the temperature at a safe level.

Why parked cars are dangerous:

• Young children, especially infants, are much more sensitive to heat than adults. Young children have a smaller body surface area and do not regulate their body temperatures as quickly as adults. Rising temperatures inside a car can produce significant heat stress on children causing severe dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke that may result in serious illness or death.
• An unlocked family car parked in the driveway can also be dangerous. Children are naturally curious and often lack fear or do not understand that a situation poses a danger to them. Once inside they may become trapped and unable to get themselves out.

What parents and caregivers need to know:

• Never leave your child in an unattended car, even with the windows open.
• Teach children not to play in, on or around cars.
• Check to make sure that all children leave the vehicle when you reach your destination. Don't overlook sleeping infants and young children.
• Always lock car doors and trunks, when parked in the driveway or near your home.
• Check the temperature of your child's safety seat surface and safety belt buckles before restraining children in the car. Your child's skin can be severely burned in one second if it touches car seat surfaces that are over 65°C.
• Keep car keys out of reach and sight of children.
• If your child gets locked inside a car, call 911.

Watch for symptoms of heat related illnesses, which include:

• dizziness or fainting
• nausea or vomiting
• headache
• rapid breathing and heartbeat
• extreme thirst

If your child experiences any of these symptoms move him/her to a cool place and offer water. If the symptoms continue, take your child to a doctor or call 911 for medical emergencies.

Last updated April 2012