Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - With temperatures soaring across Virginia, AAA is reminding parents and caregivers of the dangers of leaving children in a hot vehicle.
An average of 38 children per year die from heatstroke after being left in hot vehicles, according to Noheatstroke.org. While most parents say they can't imagine leaving their child in the backseat of a car, data collected over the past 25 years shows most cases happen unintentionally.
"We know that, historically, one of the greatest contributing factors to children being forgotten in cars is a change in routine," says Morgan Dean, AAA spokesperson. "With schools out for the summer, disruptions are common in work routines and childcare routines that many have become accustomed to."
One hundred percent of heatstroke deaths of children in cars are preventable, Dean added. He says parents can leave a purse or cellphone in the backseat as a way to ensure they check the backseat before leaving. Adults should also teach children the importance of not playing in vehicles, as they could become trapped if child locks are activated.
"Teach [kids] how to get into the front seat if they were to be in a vehicle that they couldn't get out of and to use the front doors if they're big enough," Dean says. "If they can't get the doors open, teach them to start honking the horn until somebody comes to the vehicle."
Temperatures inside vehicles can be up to 50 degrees hotter than outside, and most of the heating occurs within the first 30 minutes after the doors close and the air conditioning goes off. Dean says it's "critical" that parents be aware of the increased risk of hot car deaths this time of year.
