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Global Automakers Warns About Risks of Leaving Children in Hot Cars


toddler in car seat (select to view enlarged photo)

WASHINGTON--April 3, 2012: With the spring's warmer temperatures already being felt around much of the nation, the Association of Global Automakers joins the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in reminding drivers about the dangers of kids being left in hot cars. NHTSA today launched a new public awareness campaign to address this issue, "Where's Baby? Look before you lock."

“More than half of all vehicle-related heatstroke deaths in children are caused by a child accidentally being left in the car”

"More than half of all vehicle-related heatstroke deaths in children are caused by a child accidentally being left in the car," said Mike Stanton, Global Automakers president and CEO. "NHTSA's campaign is very timely as we head into summer and the dangers from kids being left in hot vehicles increases."

Last year NHTSA hosted a roundtable meeting with various consumer groups, child safety advocates, and automobile manufacturers, to discuss the vehicle related safety issues associated with child hyperthermia. Global Automakers provided a statement in support of both public awareness campaigns and educational programs to tackle this important safety issue.

"Children left in hot vehicles can die from heatstroke, even when it's just 57 degrees outside," said Stanton. "This campaign will remind drivers to play it safe and never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even for a few minutes."

According to NHTSA, heatstroke is the leading cause of non-crash vehicle fatalities for children 14 and under. In fact, one child dies from heatstroke nearly every 10 days from being left in a hot vehicle. Warning signs of heatstroke 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, NHTSA recommends cooling the child rapidly and calling 911.

You can learn more about NHTSA's "Where's Baby? Look before you lock." campaign at Safer Car/Heatstroke.

The Association of Global Automakers represents international motor vehicle manufacturers, original equipment suppliers, and other automotive-related trade associations. Our members' market share of both U.S. sales and production is 40 percent and growing. We work with industry leaders, legislators, and regulators to create the kind of public policy that improves vehicle safety, encourages technological innovation, and protects our planet. Our goal is to foster a competitive environment in which more vehicles are designed and built to enhance Americans' quality of life. For more information, visit Global Automakers.