Yuma, Arizona - Even though it may only be mid-October, the temperatures are still hot enough that caution must be used to ensure the safety of children and pets in vehicles. Temperatures in the 90s may not seem uncomfortable, but remember those are hot summertime temperatures for much of the rest of the country.
To ensure your children and pets safety, always practice the following safety tips:
- Never leave children or pets inside a closed vehicle, it can be deadly.
- Interior temperatures in a car can reach well above 100 degrees in a very short period of time.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.
- Always keep your car doors locked, even when the vehicle is in a garage or carport as children may play in the vehicle and can become trapped.
- Check the temperature of child safety seats and seat beats before sitting children down or buckling them up. The metal (and even plastic) can become hot enough to cause burns.
- Call 911 immediately if you find a child left alone in a parked car, or your child becomes locked in your car. The child's life may depend on it.
- Ensure that children and adults are drinking plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated can prevent many heat related problems.