Campaign promotes keeping children safe in, around cars

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, DCFS, in partnership with KidsAndCars.org, are working to build awareness on how to keep children safe in and around cars. 

The partners have released a public service announcement, PSA, as part of the awareness campaign.

In the summer, a car can heat up to 90 degrees in less than 10 minutes so it is never a good idea to leave a child alone in a car for any amount of time; and it is against the law in Illinois.  

“If you see a child in a hot car alone, dial 911 immediately,” DCFS acting director BJ Walker said in a news release. 

“Your sense of community and your intervention can help prevent a tragedy and save a life when minutes and even seconds matter.”

The radio PSA reminds parents and caregivers that we all have a role to play in keeping children safe because every 10 days in the United States of America, a child dies from heatstroke.  

A split second decision to leave a child alone in a car can lead to devastating consequences, the announcement notes.

To remind yourself there is a child in the back seat put something there you will need, like a wallet, phone, purse or briefcase to “Look before You Lock.” 

And tell your childcare provider to call you immediately if your child does not show up as scheduled. These actions can save a life. 

For more tips on how to keep children safe visit www.DCFS.Illinois.gov or www.KidsandCars.org.   

Pets are in danger of overheating too, because unlike people, they cannot as easily cool down. It is best to leave pets at home during the warmer months.