Did you know that Texas has more child deaths due to heatstroke in a car than any other state? On a 90-degree day, the inside temperature of a car can increase to 109 degrees in 10 minutes and to 124 degrees in 30 minutes. Add to that the fact that kids’ bodies heat up 3-5 times faster than adult bodies, and the heat effects are increased.
The Texas Department of Health and Human Services and the Texas Heatstroke Task Force offer the following prevention steps that everyone should know:
- If you see a child alone in a car, call 911 immediately. Texas law provides liability protection for anyone who rescues a child from a hot car, provided certain steps are followed; click here to learn more.
- Never leave a child unattended in a car, such as a quick trip into the store, even if the car is running.
- Keep cars locked at all times—both doors and trunks, at home and away. Keep car keys away from children.
- If you cannot find a child, check the pool and water sources first, then check vehicles, including trunks.
- Use reminders to check the back seat when you reach your destination. For example, place something you will need in the back seat when traveling with a child; keep a stuffed animal or other memento in your child’s seat when it’s empty, and move it to the front seat when your child is in the back as a visual reminder.
- Never assume it can’t happen to you or your child. A change in routine or busy schedule can cause a caregiver to forget that a child is still in the car.
