Updated: August 1, 2018
Originally Published: July 31, 2018
How many tasks do you complete before driving off with your little ones? You load the stroller, pack the diaper bag, and bring along snacks, drinks, books, and toys. You gather extra diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes. Then, you buckle them into their carseats or boosters without a second thought. But what if incorporating a safeguard against hot car deaths became as routine as securing them in their seats? Jenni Carter, editor-in-chief of carreviews.com, envisions making that a reality.
Carter reports that the average annual number of hot car fatalities, which includes children who accidentally lock themselves in vehicles, stands at 37. However, in 2017, the number rose to 43, and tragically, 2018 has already seen 28 incidents, indicating it may become the deadliest year yet.
But why is this issue escalating? Is it due to increased awareness from media coverage, or are parents simply more distracted than before? We can speculate endlessly, but the truth remains: these tragedies occur to loving parents who would do anything for their children. The tired narrative of “How could anyone forget their child?” does little to help. Many parents who have suffered such loss likely thought, “That could never happen to me” until it did.
I can relate—I forgot my kids in the car not once, but twice. Yes, you can criticize me and call me a negligent mother, but I’ve already faced my own guilt. Fortunately, my children were safe because I realized my mistake within moments. I’m a devoted parent who centers her life around my kids, which is why I understand how easily this can happen to even the most attentive parents.
On both occasions, I had a talkative toddler with me, making the quiet car feel unusual. With my older child with their dad, I was left with a sleepy baby. Somewhere during the short drive, I simply forgot the baby was there. I quickly came to my senses and felt overwhelming relief that I caught my error in time. I know firsthand how quickly this can transpire, even for good parents.
We can choose to pass judgment or take proactive steps to prevent hot car tragedies. We must acknowledge our shared humanity and the busy lives we lead. Every child deserves to return home safely every day.
There are straightforward strategies parents can implement, such as leaving a personal item in the backseat or setting reminders on their phones. Some childcare centers have alert systems that notify parents if their child is late. Additionally, some parents establish their communication systems, like texting each other once they’ve dropped off their child.
Car manufacturers are also stepping up, creating technologies designed to prevent these heartbreaking incidents. GM was the pioneer with its Rear Seat Reminder System, which chimes at the end of a trip if the back doors were opened beforehand.
Nissan’s Rear Door Alert System serves a similar purpose; currently available in the 2018 Pathfinder, it displays a message on the center panel and honks if the back doors were opened during the journey. According to Nissan spokesperson Sarah Jones, this feature will be extended to the Altima and Rogue models next year, with plans to include it in all vehicles by 2020. Kudos to Nissan!
Moreover, Hyundai’s Rear Occupant Alert System, found in the 2019 Santa Fe, is equipped with a movement sensor that activates the headlights and horn if it detects movement in the backseat after the car has been exited. While it may not detect a sleeping infant in a carseat, it’s an excellent alert for toddlers who may be left behind.
In addition to these innovations, various apps and carseat technologies have emerged to assist parents in preventing this tragedy. Kars 4 Kids offers a free app that utilizes Bluetooth to remind parents of a child in the backseat. Drivers Little Helper is another app that alerts parents and can even contact someone if no response is received. Evenflo has introduced a SensorSafe system in its carseats that alerts parents via a transmitter connected to the chest clip.
The key takeaway is that these options exist. If you have young children who could potentially become locked in a hot car, please take action. Consider implementing at least one of these methods, or better yet, “Mix it up,” suggests Jenni Carter, to ensure safety. Combining several strategies is your best defense. When looking for a new vehicle or carseat, inquire about the safety technologies available to protect your children. Never assume that it won’t happen to you.
“We strive to safeguard our children in countless ways,” Carter emphasizes. “So why wouldn’t we do the same in this regard?”
For more insights into prevention techniques and resources, check out our blog on home insemination techniques.
Summary:
Innovative technologies are emerging to help prevent hot car deaths, a tragic issue that affects many families. Car manufacturers like GM, Nissan, and Hyundai are developing systems that remind parents if children are still in the vehicle. Additionally, various apps and carseat technologies are available to assist parents in keeping their kids safe. Implementing these strategies can help ensure that every child returns home safely.