·
Never leave children alone
in or around cars; not even for a minute. If the child(ren) are all buckled in
and you suddenly remember something left inside - take the children back inside
with you; possibly call or text someone to come help you. Whatever you do -
don't leave
the child(ren).
·
Put something you'll need
like your cell phone, handbag, employee ID or brief case, etc., on the floor
board in the back seat.
·
Get in the habit of always
opening the back door of your vehicle every time you reach your destination to
make sure no child has been left behind. This will soon become a
habit. We call this the “Look Before You Lock” campaign.
·
Keep a large stuffed animal
in the child's car seat when it’s not occupied. When the child is placed
in the seat, put the stuffed animal in the front passenger seat. It's a visual
reminder that anytime the stuffed animal is up front you know the child is in
the back seat in a child safety seat.
·
Make arrangements with your
child’s day care center or babysitter that you will always call if your child
will not be there on a particular day as scheduled.
·
This is common courtesy and
sets a good example that everyone who is involved in the care of your child is
informed of their whereabouts on a daily basis. Ask them to phone you if
your child doesn't show up when expected. Many children’s lives could
have been saved with a telephone call from a concerned child care
provider. Give child care providers all your telephone numbers, including
that of an extra family member or friend, so they can always confirm the
whereabouts of your child.
·
Keep vehicles locked at all
times; even in the garage or driveway and always set your parking brake.
·
Keys and/or remote openers
should never be left within reach of children.
·
Make sure all child passengers have left the vehicle after it is
parked.
·
When a child is missing,
check vehicles and car trunks immediately.
·
If you see a child alone in
a vehicle, get involved. If they are hot or seem sick, get them out as
quickly as possible. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
·
Be especially careful about
keeping children safe in and around cars during busy times, schedule changes
and periods of crisis or holidays.
·
Use drive-thru services
when available. (restaurants, banks, pharmacies, dry cleaners, etc.)
·
Use your debit or credit
card to pay for gas at the pump.
KidsAndCars.org’s now has new parent cards that are appropriate for hospitals to go home with parents in their new baby packets and should be used by anyone involved with children from the very beginning. (OBGYN’s, “Mommy and Me classes,” etc.) Parents aren't being educated about the effects fatigue, lack of sleep, and stress can have on them as new parents. The “Look Before You Lock” campaign helps parents to understand these dangers and provides safety tips to employ as soon as their baby is born. Visit, www.KidsAndCars.org and go to the ‘education’ tab to find what you need.
