The British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA) has issued a strong warning to drivers and car owners regarding the significant dangers of leaving children or pets unattended inside vehicles. With rising temperatures expected, the consequences of doing so can be fatal.
According to Ken Cousin, BCAA’s Road Assist Director, a call about a child locked in a car triggers an immediate response. “When we receive a call from a member notifying us that a child is locked in a car, we drop everything. We dispatch the nearest resource to get there as soon as possible.”
Rescuing children from locked cars is, unfortunately, a common occurrence for the BCAA. In 2006 alone, they rescued at least 130 children and approximately 40 pets from such situations.
Children or pets can accidentally lock themselves inside a vehicle, sometimes even with the keys still inside. This can happen even if you step out for a moment, perhaps to pick up auto parts. Distractions can also lead to this dangerous situation. The BCAA emphasizes that with increasing temperatures, the outcome for trapped children or pets can be deadly.
The BCAA strongly advises drivers and car owners to never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle. If you must make a quick stop, take them with you.