Stay Safe This Summer: Hot Cars Are a Hidden Danger for Kids and Pets

2769 Conroy Road, Orlando, FL 32839, USA - As the summer sun bears down on Florida, the dangers of leaving children and pets in hot cars become an urgent topic. Emergency calls related to such incidents have surged recently, prompting a collaborative effort between Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) and Orange County Fire Rescue (OCFR) to educate the public on this pressing issue. In a bid to raise awareness, the agencies will hold a live demonstration on July 23, 2025, at the OCAS facility in Orlando, aimed at informing residents about the risks and potential legal consequences of leaving unattended children or pets in vehicles, especially as the mercury climbs.

The alarming reality is that car interiors heat up dramatically, with temperatures rising by up to 20°F within just ten minutes and as much as 40 to 50°F in one hour. This can create life-threatening conditions for anyone left inside. During the demo, attendees will learn how responders measure vehicle temperatures, techniques for safely accessing locked cars, and the medical risks associated with heat exposure. They’ll also delve into treatment methods for those affected and the specific legal ramifications of these actions. As Carmen-Susan Glotfelty-Ortiz, a veterinarian with OCAS, will be available for interviews, residents can gain insight directly from experts on handling such situations.

Understanding the Legal Landscape

While it may be inconceivable for many to think they could forget a child in a vehicle, tragedies happen far more often than most realize. Over half of the hot car deaths occur when caregivers mistakenly leave a child behind. National statistics reveal that nearly 40 child fatalities happen each year in hot cars, translating to one every nine days. Shockingly, from 1990 to 2024, the total fatalities reached 1,125, with 88% of those children aged three and under. Yet, there are also laws that govern this issue, with varying stipulations across states.

In Florida, the law allows for a maximum of 15 minutes that a child can be left unattended in a vehicle before it becomes a criminal offense. This time limit serves as a crucial reminder that momentary lapses in attention can lead to catastrophic consequences. Furthermore, while numerous states lack explicit laws, incidents can still fall under child endangerment statutes. All eyes will be on Congress in the wake of the Hot Cars Act, which aims to mandate child safety alert systems in new vehicles. Advocates believe that a system designed to detect a child’s presence in a car would surpass the effectiveness of mere seat alarms.

Practical Tips for Parents and Caregivers

In addition to legal awareness, parents and caregivers are urged to take proactive measures to prevent such tragedies. It’s vital to understand that a child’s body heats up three to five times faster than an adult’s, making it imperative to never leave children alone in or around vehicles. Practical strategies suggested by experts include placing a child’s item, such as a stuffed toy, in the front seat as a reminder, and establishing a habit of checking the back seat every time you exit the car.

Moreover, open communication with childcare providers can be beneficial; asking them to notify you if a child misses their drop-off can add an extra layer of security. It’s also wise to teach children to honk the horn if they’re ever stuck in a vehicle and to lock cars to keep curious youngsters out. Always be vigilant, particularly during busy times or significant changes in routine, as stress and distractions contribute to these accidental oversights.

In summary, the collaboration between OCAS and OCFR reflects a commitment not just to animal welfare, but to safeguarding the community’s most vulnerable members—our children. As awareness grows, so too does the hope for a future where tragedies related to hot cars become a grim part of the past.

For further details about the upcoming demonstration, important safety tips, and resources, check out the event information from Orange County’s news release. Additionally, learn about relevant state laws regarding this issue on Employer Heat Stroke Prevention and the alarming facts surrounding hot car incidents from Kids and Cars.