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High Temps Equal Danger to Kids and Pets in Cars

This week’s high temperatures will make it extra dangerous and deadly for children or pets if left in a vehicle, even for a short amount of time.

BELLEVUE, Wash. — AAA Washington recommends parents, caregivers and pet owners to never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle, even if the vehicle is parked in the shade or has a window open.  On a mild or overcast day with an outside temperature of 70 degrees the internal temperature of a vehicle will increase to 104 degrees in just 30 minutes, causing a child or pet that was left in the vehicle to suffer heatstroke or possible death.  In 2016, 39 young children in the U.S. died of heatstroke because they were left in a vehicle, and we’ve already seen 29 heat-related deaths this year.

Tips for parents and pet owners to prevent a tragedy:

  • Avoid heatstroke by never leaving your child or pet in your vehicle, even for a minute.
  • Sheer forgetfulness is one of the major causes of heatstroke deaths. A rushed or distracted caregiver can easily forget a quiet child who is in the vehicle. Create reminders and habits that give you a safety net. For example: leave an item, such as a purse or wallet, you will need at your next stop in the back seat so you don’t forget about your loved one.
  • Take action if you see an unattended child or pet in a vehicle. Call 911 and follow the instructions of emergency personnel.
  • Discuss the issue of hot-car safety with everyone who drives your child, including partners, grandparents and babysitters.
  • If your pet can’t come with you when you get out of the vehicle leave the pet at home.
  • Lock your car at all times – even in your garage or driver way – so young kids can’t climb into the vehicle without your knowledge.

Prevention is still the best way to keep from having a tragic death of a child or pet that was left in a hot car. Don’t let your loved one become a statistic; find out more about heatstroke prevention at SafeSeats4Kids.AAA.com.

About AAA Washington:

AAA Washington was established in 1904 by 10 prominent Seattleites determined to champion the betterment of motoring conditions and laws; the preservation of Washington state’s natural beauty; and the promotion of Washington as an unrivaled tourist destination. More than a century later, the club continues to pursue these on behalf of its 1.2 million members. 

AAA Washington provides a variety of exclusive benefits, including roadside assistance, discounts, maps, and personalized trip planning, to members. AAA was recently named one of the most trusted travel and automotive brands in the U.S. Additional information is available through the company’s stores in Washington and northern Idaho, at www.AAA.com, or by calling 1-800-562-2582. 

About AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety:

Established in 1947 by AAA, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded, 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by conducting research into their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research is used to develop educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists and other road users. Visit www.AAAFoundation.org.

AAA Washington Media Contacts

Press Inquiries
AAAWashington@feareygroup.com

Other Questions
CorporateAffairsESG@aaawa.com

Twitter: @AAA_Washington
Facebook: AAA Washington

Interested in planning your next road trip with AAA Washington? Call your travel agent directly or your nearest AAA store to get pro tips, TripTik maps, and more. Find more Pacific Northwest scenic drives and road trips.

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