Imperial County firefighters warn of heatstroke in children left in vehicles

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - Firefighters say it’s crucial for parents to check the backseat of their car every single time they arrive at their destination.

As temperatures rise so do calls across the country.  

Children left in hot cars and some don’t make it out alive.

“Temperatures can exceed usually in a hot car typical day exceed over 120 degrees easily with direct sunlight in a garage it can easily access over 200 degrees with long exposures that can lead to death,” said Connor Phillips, firefighter.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration heatstroke is the number one killer of children next to car crashes.

Imperial County is much too familiar with this tragedy. Last year firefighters responded to 19 calls.

This year calls remain at zero and that is potentially tied to the pandemic cutting down on driving.

Still, Imperial County firefighters urge the community to be careful.

Children’s body temperatures can rise up to five times faster than that of an adult.

“Anything over 95 degrees which we’re way past is to exerting for the body and umm our bodies aren’t meant for those types of climates so get your business done in and out the car back to the house there is no need to be out here if not necessary,” said Bryan Centeno, Engineer for Imperial County fire department.

Recognizing heat stroke symptoms can be life-saving.

“Uhh, you’ll notice confusion, rapid breathing, rapid pulse rate, nausea and vomiting and usually a person will not be sweating any more during a heat stroke.”

If you or someone is experiencing these symptoms call 911 immediately.

Resources for heat safety: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/post/protecting-children-preventing-deaths-from-hot-cars