State Officials Raise Awareness About Heatstroke Risks

childcar
childcar

A public awareness campaign about the dangers of leaving children in parked cars is being launched by state officials. Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning spokesperson Kari Arend tells WSJM News April 22 is Heatstroke Prevention Awareness Day, and there’s something all caregivers should keep in mind.

“Even though the temperature may seem moderate outside, inside the vehicle those temperatures can rise quickly and can almost double from the outside temperature, so it’s critical that the child is removed as soon as possible from the vehicle,” Arend said.

Arend says Michigan has had ten child deaths since 1998 as a result of vehicle-related heatstroke. She recommends calling 911 if you see a child left in a hot car. The Office of Highway Safety Planning is working with the Michigan Secretary of State to run PSAs at branch offices. You can find out more right here.