Hot Weather Alert: Look Before You Lock -- Check the Back Seat

A car is not a babysitter, or a petsitter. In warm weather, our vehicles can become an oven in minutes, even with the windows cracked. The consequences for our children and pets can be tragic.

Summer Alert: Check the Back Seat |WSJ has tips to protect our trusting little ones from car-related heatstroke. According to the article deaths are most common in Texas and Florida, because of their climate. More than 500 children have died in hot cars since 2008 and in all cases there was a change in the caretaker's routine or a combination of stress and sleep deprivation with tragic consequences. Tips:

Put something in the back seat that you will need when you arrive at your destination. It could be a cellphone, purse or briefcase, and its placement should force you to see your child.

Keep a teddy bear or toy in the front passenger seat any time a child is riding in the back.

Have your day-care provider agree to call you at all your phone numbers if your child doesn't show up for day care.

Keep your car locked with the windows up even in the driveway and garage. Keep keys and key fobs out of reach since children are adept at getting in.

For more information and a newsletter, go to KidsAndCars.org

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