Every year, dozens of children in the U.S. tragically lose their lives after being left in hot cars. These heartbreaking incidents are preventable—but they continue to happen, often to loving and attentive caregivers who never imagined it could happen to them.
At Pediatric Heroes and Families Primary Care Clinic, we want to help raise awareness and share simple strategies that could save a child’s life.
Children’s bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults’. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can soar to deadly levels within minutes.
● In just 10 minutes, a car’s interior can rise 20 degrees.
● In 60 minutes, that increase can be over 40 degrees.
● Most deaths occur when outside temps are between 70–90°F—not just in extreme heat.
Sadly, heatstroke can occur when a child’s body temperature reaches just 104°F, and death can occur at 107°F.
Hot car deaths typically occur in three main scenarios:
● Child Forgotten by Caregiver – Often due to a change in routine or a moment of distraction.
● Child Gains Access to a Car – Children playing in or around an unlocked car become trapped.
● Child Left Intentionally – A caregiver may underestimate how quickly heat can become fatal.
In many cases, the caregiver is a loving, responsible parent who was simply overwhelmed, distracted, or unaware of how fast conditions inside a car can become dangerous.
You can take steps today to make sure this tragedy never happens to your family:
● Place a stuffed animal in the car seat when empty, and move it to the front seat when the child is in the car.
● Put your phone, wallet, or purse in the back seat so you always check before exiting.
● Set a reminder alarm on your phone when you transport your child.
● Many modern vehicles and car seats have rear-seat reminders.
● Download apps or use smart devices that send alerts if you leave your car without checking the back seat.
● Always lock your car and keep keys and remote openers out of children’s reach.
● Teach kids that cars are not a place to play.
● If you see a child alone in a car, call 911 immediately.
● Don’t wait—even a few minutes can be deadly.
Hot car deaths are heartbreaking and avoidable. It only takes a moment of distraction for a tragedy to unfold—but a few simple habits can make all the difference.
At Pediatric Heroes, we are committed to protecting the health and safety of your children. If you have questions or would like more tips on child safety and wellness, don’t hesitate to reach out to our compassionate team.
