Wednesday, August 27, 2003

Leaving a child in the car can be deadly

A young child's core body temperature can increase three to five times faster than that of an adult, making a car and heat a dangerous combination. As temperatures increase this summer, parents should be aware of the dangers of leaving their children in cars, according to Carol Ball, executive director of SAFE KIDS of Georgia for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

"Even if the outside temperature is moderate, temperatures inside a car can rise at alarming rates," said Ball. "We have seen numerous tragedies that can be prevented."

Ball and SAFE KIDS of Georgia offer these safety tips to protect children:

Never leave your child in an unattended car, even with the windows down.

Check to make sure all children leave the vehicle when you reach your destination, particularly when loading and unloading. Don't overlook sleeping infants.

Make sure you check the temperature of the child safety seat surface and safety belt buckles before restraining your children in the car.

Use a light covering to shade the seat of your parked car. Consider using windshield shades in front and back windows.

For more information about keeping your child safe during the summer, visit www.choa.org.