BEATING THE HEAT: Cars can be dangerous during heat waves, here's how to keep safe on the road

One must never overlook the dangers a heat wave can cause if you're in a vehicle.

PUBLISHED JUL 6, 2024

In both 2018 and 2019 a record number of 53 children died after being left in a hot vehicle.

Phoenix, Arizona: As temperatures soar and remain high in the Maricopa County area, most information being put out by the county and city/town administrations has understandable been about keeping citizens safe when they're outside or exerting themselves outdoors. But one must never overlook the dangers a heat wave can cause if you're in a vehicle, moving or stationary.

Temperatures inside your car can skyrocket to life-threatening levels within minutes.

Tragic numbers

According to the National Safety Council (NSC) the number of child hot car deaths for 2023 was 29. So far in 2024, seven deaths have been reported. On average, 37 children under the age of 15 die each year from heatstroke after being left in a vehicle. Nearly every state has experienced at least one death since 1998. In both 2018 and 2019 a record number of 53 children died after being left in a hot vehicle. Here are some precautions to take.

Number of Child Heatstroke Deaths in Arizona from 2000-21. (Source: national Safety Center) — Number of Child Heatstroke Deaths in vehicles in Arizona from 2000-21. (Source: national Safety Center)

Map showing nationwide statistics for child heatstroke death in vehicles. (Source: National Safety Center)

Never leave children or pets unattended

Risk of Heatstroke: Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, even with windows cracked, leading to heatstroke or death within minutes.

Legal Implications: Many places have laws against leaving children or pets in vehicles unattended due to the high risk of harm.

Use air conditioning

Cooling the Interior: Keep the air conditioning running when driving to maintain a comfortable and safe temperature inside the car.

Pre-Cooling: Before entering, if possible, pre-cool the car by running the air conditioning for a few minutes.

Hydration

Carry Water: Always keep water in the car to stay hydrated, especially during long drives.

Avoid Dehydration: Drinking fluids helps maintain body temperature and prevents dehydration.

Plan ahead

Travel Times: Schedule trips during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.

Rest Stops: Plan frequent breaks to get out of the car, stretch, and cool down in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

Use sunshades and tinted windows

Reduce Heat: Use sunshades on windshields and windows to block direct sunlight and keep the car cooler.

Tinted Windows: Tinted windows can help reduce the amount of heat entering the car, making the interior more comfortable.

Parking

Shade: Park in shaded areas whenever possible to reduce the buildup of heat inside the car.

Garage: Use a garage or covered parking when available to keep the car cooler.

Check car seats and belts

Burn Risk: Metal parts of car seats and seat belts can become extremely hot. Cover these parts with a cloth or towel to avoid burns.

Monitor warning signs

Symptoms of Heat Stress: Be aware of signs of heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, headache, nausea, and confusion. If these symptoms occur, seek a cooler environment and hydrate immediately.

Emergency preparedness

Breakdown Kit: Keep an emergency kit in the car, including items like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a flashlight.

Roadside Assistance: Ensure you have access to roadside assistance in case of car trouble during extreme heat.

Vehicle maintenance

Cooling System: Regularly check the vehicle’s cooling system to ensure it is functioning properly.

Tire Pressure: Heat can cause tire pressure to rise, increasing the risk of a blowout. Check and maintain proper tire pressure.