SAPD: Leaving a Child in a Car is Dangerous Even on Cloudy Days

SAN ANGELO, TX -- The San Angelo Police Department is reminding drivers that there is no safe time to leave a child in a vehicle.  

According to the SAPD, even on mild or cloudy days, temperatures inside vehicles can reach life-threatening levels. Leaving windows slightly open doesn't help. Children should never be left unattended or be able to get inside a vehicle.

Three primary circumstances resulting in deaths of children in hot cars are:

*A caregiver forgetting a child in a vehicle
*The child gaining access to the vehicle
*Someone knowingly leaving a child in the vehicle

Parents and caregivers should stick to a routine and avoid distractions to reduce the risk of forgetting a child. Place a purse, briefcase or even a left shoe in the back seat to force you to take one last look before walking away. Keep car doors locked so children cannot gain access, and teach them that cars are not play areas. There is no safe time to leave a child in a vehicle, even if you are just running a quick errand. 

LOOK BEFORE YOU LOCK!