Every summer you hear the stories about every parent's nightmare, a child dying after being left in a hot car. Kidsandcars.org (a non-profit child safety organization) indicate that 38 children die in hot cars every year. For pets, the numbers are in the hundreds according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.

If you've wondered just how hot a car gets in even relatively cool temperatures, take a look at this chart:

Estimated vehicle interior air temperature vs. elapsed time
Screengrab courtesy liftbump.com
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And then follow these tips from Kidsandcars.org & the American Veterinary Medical Association to avoid a tragedy:

  • Never leave kids or animals alone in a car - even for a minute.
  • Put your purse or briefcase in the back seat to help you remember to check
  • Always check the front and back seat of your car before leaving your vehicle
  • Always lock your car and be sure kids don't have access to your keys or remotes
  • If your child or pet is missing, immediately check the car and the trunk
  • Immediately call 911 if you see a child or pet left unattended in a hot car

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