The following script is part of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) radio series 'A Minute for Kids.' Feel free to use this or other AAP scripts in your local print or broadcast media, and in school or community newsletters. Please attribute the American Academy of Pediatrics as the source. For more scripts on children's health, visit www.aap.org

Dangers for Children Left Alone in Cars

Parents running quick errands may think their children will remain safe and comfortable inside their cars. But even on mild spring days, bright sunshine can raise the temperature inside a car to dangerous levels. This can cause permanent injury or death. And on cold days, a child could suffer carbon monoxide poisoning in a car left idling with the heat on and windows closed. It's for these reasons that you should never leave your child alone in a car, even with the windows down. When you reach your destination, check to make sure all children leave the vehicle. Don't overlook sleeping infants. Cars parked in driveways can be dangerous too. Always lock car doors and trunks, especially when your vehicle is parked at home. Young children playing in the driveway could crawl into a hot or idling car unnoticed, and may lack the developmental skills to get out again. For more information on keeping your child safe around cars, visit www.safekids.org.

Rev 11/06