Prevent Heatstroke Deaths

EIGHT SIMPLE STEPS TO PREVENT HEATSTROKE DEATHS. Never leave a child in a vehicle unattended—even if the windows are partially open or the engine is running, and the air conditioning is on. Make a habit of looking in the vehicle—front and back—before locking the door and walking away. Ask the childcare provider to call if the child doesn’t show up for care as expected. Place your purse or briefcase in the back seat to ensure your child isn't accidentally left in the vehicle. Write a note or place a stuffed animal in the passenger's seat to remind you that a child is in the vehicle. Teach children that a vehicle is not a play area and store keys out of a child's reach. If you see a child alone in a locked car, get them out immediately and call 911. A child in distress due to heat should be removed from the vehicle as quickly as possible and rapidly cooled. To learn more, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/child-safety.