Every year in Canada, on average one child dies after being left in a hot vehicle, according to the Hospital for Sick Children. These deaths are entirely preventable, and experts are urging parents and caregivers to remain vigilant as summer temperatures soar.
How Fast Temperatures Rise Inside a Car
Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can increase rapidly. Studies show that on a 26°C day, the interior temperature can reach 32°C within 10 minutes and climb to over 46°C within 30 minutes. Cracking windows open does little to slow this rise.
“The interior of a vehicle acts like a greenhouse, trapping heat and creating a dangerously hot environment within minutes,” said Pat Foran, consumer reporter. “Children are particularly vulnerable because their bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults.”
Preventable Tragedy
The Hospital for Sick Children emphasizes that these deaths are avoidable with simple precautions. “Never leave a child alone in a car, even for a minute,” a spokesperson stated. “Always check the back seat before locking the doors.”
Advocates recommend placing a personal item, such as a phone or bag, in the back seat as a reminder to check for children. They also urge bystanders to call 911 immediately if they see a child alone in a vehicle.
Statistics and Impact
According to data from the Canadian Paediatric Society, over 20 children have died in hot cars in Canada since 2000. In the United States, an average of 38 children die each year under similar circumstances. The majority of incidents occur when a caregiver unknowingly leaves a sleeping child in the back seat.
“These are not just accidents; they are tragedies that can be prevented through awareness and simple habits,” said Dr. Michelle Ward, a pediatrician at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario.
