Protect your kids from hot cars

Children are especially vulnerable in the warm summer months because their body temperatures increase three to five times faster than adults'. In fact, KidsAndCars.org found that an average of 38 kids die each year from heatstroke after being left in a vehicle. Help keep your kids safe in and around hot cars with these tips.

• Never leave a child unattended in a car, no matter how briefly. The interior temperature can rise almost 20 degrees within the first 10 minutes of shutting the vehicle off.
• Don't be fooled by mild temperatures. Even when it's 15 degrees Celsius outside, a car's interior can reach 43 degrees.
• Always check your backseats before locking your car. Put your cell phone or wallet in the backseat as a reminder.
• Keep vehicles locked so children can’t accidentally crawl in.
• If carrying child passengers, use drive-through services when available, such as at the bank, fast food restaurants or the dry cleaner.

Call 911 if you see a child alone in an unattended vehicle. And don’t forget: pets can be just as vulnerable to the heat. Be sure to take similar precautions when travelling with pets.