Information about the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program
2023
Seasonal CRD Preparedness Tips
July
The Dangers of Leaving Kids/Pets in Parked Cars
During this season, temperatures will continue to rise, and heat-related deaths and illnesses will also increase. We want to help you take safety measures to secure loved ones and pets during this season of rising temperatures.
Never leave infants or children in a parked car, even if the windows are open
○ 70 degrees outside can cause cars to reach approximately 90 degrees inside
Dress kids in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Stay away from really cold and/or sugary drinks
A kid's body heats up 3-5 times faster than an adult's
About 38 children die in the U.S. from heat stroke in a car each year
Leaving a window open is not enough
**Tip:** Keep a stuffed animal in the front car seat when transporting children. It can remind you to check the backseat before exiting. Also, keeping important belongings (purse, phone, etc.) in the back of the car will remind you as well.
How quickly a car heats up
| Outside air temperature |
| Minutes passed | 70 °F | 75 °F | 80 °F | 85 °F | 90 °F | 95 °F |
|---|
| 10 min. | 89 °F | 94 °F | 99 °F | 104 °F | 109 °F | 114 °F |
|---|
| 20 min. | 99 °F | 104 °F | 109 °F | 114 °F | 119 °F | 124 °F |
|---|
| 30 min. | 104 °F | 109 °F | 114 °F | 119 °F | 124 °F | 129 °F |
|---|
| 40 min. | 108 °F | 113 °F | 118 °F | 123 °F | 128 °F | 133 °F |
|---|
| 50 min. | 111 °F | 116 °F | 121 °F | 126 °F | 131 °F | 136 °F |
|---|
| 60 min. | 113 °F | 118 °F | 123 °F | 128 °F | 133 °F | 138 °F |
|---|
https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/children.html
https://www.seattlechildrens.org/health-safety/keeping-kids-healthy/prevention/dangers-child-alone-car/
For more information contact:
Cameron Sellers
Community Resource Development - Disaster Educator
cameron.sellers@kysu.edu