Stop. Think. Check the Back Seat

Leaving a baby in a car seat is a real and serious danger

It is heartbreaking and a very real danger. On average, 38 children die each year in the U.S. from vehicular heatstroke. 

This tragic phenomenon is often unintentional and typically happens when someone forgets a child is in the back seat. It can result from a change in routine, such as a caregiver who doesn’t normally do daycare drop-off—as well as distraction, sleep deprivation, or stress.

There are ways to prevent this 

Thankfully, it’s preventable. Many newer vehicles now feature rear seat reminder systems, and some car seats come equipped with built-in alarms. 

Parents and caregivers can also use simple habits to prevent tragedy, like placing a phone, purse, wallet, or even a shoe in the back seat. That way, when you go to step out of the car and realize something’s missing, you’re prompted to check the back seat—and potentially save a life.