February 25, 2004

By: Jordan Strauss
Website: http://www.1st-in-cars.com

Summer Heat Makes It Dangerous to Leave Children in Cars

Retailers and other businesses are asking parents to "Please bring your kids inside" this summer – don’t leave them in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Department of Health and Welfare decals bearing that message are showing up on storefront doors and windows throughout the state.

The decals inform parents that the temperature inside a parked car can jump to 150 degrees in a matter of 10 minutes. That’s enough time for a child left in a parked car to die or suffer brain damage.

Nobody would intentionally place their children at such a risk, said Roseanne Hardin, Administrator for the Department's Division of Family and Community Services. But sometimes, in the rush to complete a quick errand, you might make the mistake of thinking … ‘The kids will be safe in the car. I’ll be right back’.

The decals remind parents that kids are better off in the store than in the car. So far, more than 2,500 decals have been distributed and business owners are calling the Department in hopes of getting more. The decals are also displayed at the entrance to libraries, Health District offices and Health and Welfare offices.

It’s never safe to leave a child or a pet in a parked car, Hardin said.

About The Author:

Jordan Strauss is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cars.com.  Great car accessories and parts plus financing, insurance and leasing tips.