Police are issuing a reminder to not leave children unattended in a vehicle, following two separate reports in the state’s south west.
About 1pm on Saturday (14 December 2019) police were called to a car park on Banna Avenue, Griffith following reports two children – aged two and nine – had been left unattended in a vehicle with the engine running.
About 3.25pm police were called to a supermarket carpark in Griffith following reports two children – aged 11 and four – were left unattended in a vehicle that was turned off with the windows up.
Police attended and spoke to the parents in both alleged incidents and are continuing inquiries.
Both incidents have been reported to Family and Community Services.
Murrumbidgee Police District Inspector Kim Traynor said the four children were fortunate to not come into harm’s way.
“By leaving your child in a car you are placing them at great risk of dehydration and heat stroke, or even abduction,” Inspector Traynor said.
“We are urging the community to be mindful, particularly as the weather heats up.
“Leaving your children alone in a car so you can grab a few things from the shops is not only dangerous, it is irresponsible.”
As summer begins, these incidents are a timely reminder of the dangers around leaving children and pets alone in cars:
• On a typical summer day, the temperature inside a car (even with the windows rolled down a little) can quickly rise above 50 to 60 degrees.
• Even on a relatively mild day, the temperature inside a car can get above 40 degrees.
• At those temperatures, children are at great risk for heat stroke, which can lead to a high fever, dehydration, seizures, stroke and death.
• Anyone who sees a child left unattended in a vehicle is urged to contact 000 and help make sure the child gets out as soon as possible.
• There is a heightened risk of being abducted if children are left alone in a car, even if the car is locked.
