NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Parents...it's a nightmare none of us want to think about but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has some surprising info on hot car deaths.
I thought was important that you know.
Most hot car deaths happen at home. The NHTSA says about a quarter of the deaths are from kids getting into the car on their own.
The second most likely location is at a parent or caregiver's workplace, that's because about half the time they meant to drop the child at daycare and forgot.
That can be because of a change in routine.
Remember, even on days with mild temperatures, the heat inside a vehicle can reach dangerous levels within an hour, posing significant health risks.
“Children aren’t able to efficiently regulate their body temperature and their bodies can heat up three to five times faster than adults,” said Dr. Emily Thomas PhD, Consumer Reports, Auto Safety.
The best advice, plan reminders for every time you drive with a child like leaving an item in the back seat. Teach kids the car is not a place to play and keep doors locked.
It’s a sad reality that area animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations face constant overcrowding -- with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for a forever home. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with those groups – including Critter Cavalry – to find solutions. I’ve fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed or neutered can help control the pet population – and ease the burden.
-Rhori Johnston
