Families often spend a lot of time in cars over the busy summer period. Unfortunately there are a few dangers for children who spend a lot of time traveling in cars. Here are some summer safety tips for keeping children safe this hot season around vehicles.
Never Leave Your Children in a Car Alone
Each year an average of 38 children die from heat stroke after being trapped in a motor vehicle in the United States. Most of these deaths occur because:
- An adult forgot the child was in the car
- The child was playing in the car by themselves
- The supervising adult did not realise how quickly temperatures can increase in a car
There are a few simple techniques you can use to remind yourself that a child is in the car with you:
- Never leave a child in a car unattended, not even for 30 seconds.
- Leave your purse/wallet/phone or briefcase in the back seat of the car so you will always look in the back before locking the car.
- Consider various technological solutions designed to keep children safe including wireless proximity sensors, advanced car seats and GPS tracker for kids.
- Remember that car trunks can also be dangerous. Never leave your trunk open long enough that children can crawl inside. Don’t let your children play unattended in the car and with an open trunk.
The Danger of Electric Windows
More than 2,000 people are treated for injuries from electric windows in the United States each year. Many of these injuries occur to young children who were playing with electric windows in an unattended car. In summer it is more common for children to wind windows down to get some fresh air. Keep the windows locked, use air conditioning to cool the vehicle and make sure your kids don’t think electric windows are toys.
Backovers
Unfortunately it is very common to hear stories of small children being accidentally hit by a reversing vehicle. This type of accident usually occurs with children who are between the ages of 12 and 24 months. Young toddlers are starting to move very quickly and can get behind or in front of a car without an adult noticing.
To reduce the risk of backovers:
- Never make assumptions about where children are. Locate them and make sure they are not close to the vehicle.
- Check around the car and street before starting its engine.
- Always drive the vehicle very slowly when moving it from a parked position.
- Make use of technology to see blind spots and sense motion around the vehicle.
- Teach your children to stay away from vehicles.
Carry an Emergency Kit in the Car
Be prepared for an emergency involving your children by carrying a safety kit in the car, especially if your family is going on a summer vacation. Accidents can occur and there are usually more risks during the summer months particularly with dehydration and insect bites. It should contain things like water, bandages, benadryl, an epi-pen, painkillers, first-aid instructions, sun screen and a spare cell phone.