Hot cars can quickly turn into a deadly trap
SEATTLE – Police reminded parents Tuesday to never leave their children in the car during warm weather, even for a few minutes.
According to a Kent police release, the family car can serve as a "greenhouse."
On a normal 72-degree day, the internal temperature of a car can rise 35 to 40 degrees in an hour with the windows rolled up.
A child’s body temperature spikes 2-3 times faster than an adults, quickly turning the interior of a vehicle a dangerous place for young childredn.
Eight kids -- most younger than two years old -- have died after being left in a hot car this year alone.
Police offer simple reminders for parents and caregivers:
-Put your phone or work bag next to the child’s seat so you don’t forget they are in the car
-If a spouse or family member is taking a child somewhere and they normally don’t, call and check the child is OK.
-Leave the diaper bag in the front passenger seat as a reminder.
It is illegal to leave a child unattended in a car whether or not the engine is running under Washington state law.