Children and Hot Car Deaths

Never leave a child alone in a car.

Look before you lock— always check the back seat!

Every year, children die in hot cars— even when outside temperatures feel mild. It only takes minutes. And it can happen to anyone.

This is preventable. Always look before you lock. Put your phone or wallet in the back seat so you have to check. And never leave a child alone — not even for a minute. Your child’s life is worth one extra check.

Debunking Common Myths

Myth #1: “I’m going out for just a few minutes, it will be safe.”

FALSE: The temperature inside your vehicle can rise 20+ degrees in just 10 minutes.

Myth #2:“It doesn’t seem that hot outside.”

FALSE: A child’s body heats up much faster than an adult’s. In a parked car, 75ºF outside becomes 120ºF in the car after 90 minutes.

Myth #3:“It is safe to park in the shade with the windows cracked.”

FALSE: Temperatures can still climb rapidly. Heatstroke can happen quickly — and it can be fatal.

See a child alone in a vehicle?

If you see a child alone in a car— don’t wait. Call 911 right away and try to get help. Check if the child is responsive. If the child is in danger, try to get into the car to help. California’s Good Samaritan Law protects you from legal consequences when helping in an emergency.

We know life moves fast, but slowing down to check the back seat, or speaking up when you see something, can save a life.

Resources

NHTSA Child Heatstroke Prevention: Prevent Hot Car Deaths

RC Law Library: California Good Samaritan Laws for Pets and Children