I write this blog entry as a concerned parent as much as your sheriff. One child dies from heatstroke nearly every 10 days in the United States from being left in a car or crawling into an unlocked vehicle. What is most tragic is that every single one of these deaths could have been prevented.
Heatstroke is the No. 1 vehicle-related killer of children, outside of crashes. As we have plenty more hot weather in our South Carolina summer, the dangers to children remain high. Parents and caregivers must remain vigilant at all times to ensure that these preventable deaths stop.
Remember: never leave a child in a vehicle unattended, always look in the back seat every time you leave your car, and always lock your car and put your keys out of reach from children.
Come up with some ways to remind yourself that your child is in the car, such as placing a briefcase, purse, or cellphone next to the child’s car seat. That way, you’ll always check the back seat before you leave your car.
Know the warning signs of heatstroke, which include: red, hot, and moist or dry skin; no sweating; a strong rapid pulse or a slow weak pulse; nausea; confusion; or acting strangely. If a child exhibits any of these signs after being in a hot vehicle, quickly spray the child with cool water or with a garden hose— NEVER put a child in an ice bath. It’s important to me that we work together to get the word out: Look Before You Lock.