Never leave children in cars, especially during the summer. As summer temperatures rise across Idaho, it’s critical to remember that life-threatening heat-related dangers don’t require triple-digit temperatures. In fact, when it comes to parked cars, even an 80-degree day can quickly become life-threatening—especially for children.
Every year, dozens of children in the U.S. die from being left in hot cars—either intentionally for a short errand or unintentionally when a caregiver forgets they’re in the back seat.
The interior temperature of a vehicle can increase by nearly 20 degrees in just 10 minutes, a potentially deadly situation even during a seemingly mild day in the 80s. Cracking windows or parking in the shade doesn’t prevent the rapid rise in temperature. On an 85-degree day, the inside of a car can surpass 100 degrees in minutes—putting young children and pets at serious risk.
Even cooler days aren’t safe. In some cases, cars have reached over 110 degrees in less than an hour, even when it’s just 70 degrees outside.
Children are especially vulnerable because their bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults. When a child’s core body temperature reaches 104°F, heatstroke sets in. At 107°F, the child may die. These medical emergencies can occur in as little as 15 minutes.
To prevent tragedy:
- Never leave a child or pet alone in a car—not even for a moment.
- Always check the back seat before locking your vehicle.
- Lock unattended cars to prevent children from climbing in and becoming trapped.
- Use a reminder, such as placing a phone or purse in the back seat.
- Ask daycare providers to call immediately if a child hasn’t arrived as expected.
With Idaho temperatures expected to hover in the 80s and 90s over the next few weeks, do not leave children and pets in the car for any reason.
More info from the Centers for disease Control and Prevention:
Dr. Kathryn Turner is deputy state epidemiologist in the Division of Public Health.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.
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