EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 As temperatures begin to climb in El Paso, officials are urging drivers and caregivers to take extra precautions to prevent hot car deaths and to help keep roadways clean through April volunteer efforts.<\/p>\n
TxDOT\u2019s Ana McCranie said drivers may have recently seen reminders on dynamic message signs along highways warning people never to leave a child alone in a car. \u201cNever leave a child alone in a car. If you see a child left alone in a car, get help,\u201d McCranie said. She added that heatstroke is one of the leading causes of non-crash vehicle-related fatalities among children.<\/p>\n
Even in relatively mild weather, vehicles can heat up quickly to dangerous levels. An outside temperature in the mid-60s can cause a vehicle\u2019s inside temperature to rise above 110 degrees Fahrenheit, and the inside temperature of a car can rise almost 20 degrees Fahrenheit within the first 10 minutes.<\/p>\n
McCranie said children are more vulnerable to heatstroke than adults, and that risk factors can include routine changes or caregivers who are not used to driving with children. She also noted that \u201ceven great parents can forget a child in the back seat.\u201d<\/p>\n
TxDOT recommends several steps to help prevent a tragedy:<\/p>\n
Look before you lock. McCranie suggested placing an item you will need at your destination \u2014 such as a purse, briefcase or phone \u2014 in the back seat as a reminder.Use reminders. Keep a stuffed animal or other memento in a child\u2019s seat when it\u2019s empty, then move it to the front seat when a child is in the back as a visual cue.Keep your vehicle locked and keep keys out of reach. Nearly three in 10 heatstroke deaths happen when an unattended child gains access to a vehicle.Take action. If you notice a child alone in a car, call 9-1-1.<\/p>\n
McCranie also highlighted TxDOT\u2019s litter prevention efforts, including the Don\u2019t Mess With Texas Trash-Off and the Adopt-a-Highway program.<\/p>\n