Heat poses deadly risk for children

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Increasing summer temperatures and 100-plus degree afternoons pose an increased risk for children left in unattended vehicles.

The Austin-Travis County EMS paramedics conducted an experiment which revealed that when the outside temperature is greater than 87 degrees, the interior temperature of a vehicle ranges from 134- to 154 degrees.

The experiment also proved that cracking the windows in an attempt to improve air circulation did little to lower the interior temperature of the test vehicles.

EMS said an average of more than 36 child fatalities nationwide were recorded each year since 1998 as a result of negligent parents leaving their children unattended in closed vehicles.

While Texas law states leaving a child unattended in a vehicle is a crime, some parents continue to ignore the law by leaving toddlers and infants in the vehicle. EMS said they are more susceptible to overheating than healthy adults.

“The symptoms and associated outcomes can range from physical discomfort and mild dehydration, to heat stroke with the very likely potential for seizures, unconscious and death,” said Austin-Travis County EMS.

EMS officials will address the danger for kids in unattended vehicles at 2 p.m. Thursday at the ATCEMS Administration Building.

The event will discuss the risks and consequences of heat-related emergencies, in addition to answering questions.