SACRAMENTO ?Summer heat can quickly create deadly conditions for children left in cars.
California Highway Patrol (CHP) urges people not to leave children unattended in vehicles because it”s dangerous and illegal.
Research showed that heat stroke is the leading cause of non-crash vehicle deaths in children, according to a CHP press release. About 27 children die every year in the U.S. from heat in a vehicle.
“As a driver, you are responsible for the safety of your passengers both while the vehicle is running and when it is parked,” said CHP commissioner Joe Farrow in the press release. “Carelessness can lead to tragedy.”
Any parent, legal guardian or other person responsible for a child age 6 or younger cannot leave that child unattended in a vehicle without the supervision of someone at least 12 years old under Kaitlyn”s Law. The fine is $100.
CHP will attach a purple ribbon to the antenna of its patrol cars to help non-profit organization, 4 R Kids Sake, to raise awareness of the dangers of leaving children alone in cars.
“Hopefully by focusing attention on this issue, we can prevent the senseless loss of innocent lives in the future,” Farrow said.
CHP asks people to call 9-1-1 if they see a child left unattended in a car.
