Flagler County, FL- Last month, more infants died in hot car deaths than any other July in nearly a decade, according to research completed by San Jose State University. That's why the Flagler County Sheriff's office and the Department of Children and Families are teaming up to demonstrate the dangers of leaving a child inside of a vehicle. The public is welcome to join the organizations on Friday, August 25th at 1 PM at the Target Shopping Plaza, located at 5100 E. Highway 100 in Palm Coast, for a demonstration along with handouts of life-saving tips and tricks to prevent this tragedy from occurring.
“Heat can kill, especially Florida heat,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “Parents and caregivers need to take all measures possible to keep kids safe. Many people think this could not happen in their families, but all it takes is one ‘off’ day and things can change. Be proactive and use the tools we’ll be demonstrating at this event.”
At least 729 children have died in the United States due to overheating inside of a vehicle – 29 of those deaths have occurred so far in 2017. KidsAndCars.org reported that a child’s body overheats three to five times faster than an adult’s does. Most of these deaths were accidental.
“The importance of raising awareness and education in the community is paramount to the prevention of injuries and deaths to children in and around vehicles,” said Charles Puckett, Community Development Administrator for the Department of Children and Families. “The Department of Children and Families will have available to the community: Window Clings; Car Shaped Magnets; Air Fresheners and trifold brochures entitled, ‘Keep kids safe in and around cars.’”
Photo courtesy of shutterstock.com & logoboom.
Copyright Southern Stone Communications 2017
