Illinois State Police warn parents of hot car dangers

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

ILLINOIS (KBSI) – Illinois State Police are reminding parents and caregivers about the dangers of leaving children inside vehicles as summer temperatures continue.

Police said heatstroke can begin when a person’s body temperature reaches 104 degrees, while a body temperature of 107 degrees can be fatal. Even when the temperature outside is 65 degrees, the inside of a vehicle can climb above 110 degrees.

Officials recommend parents and caregivers always check the back seat before locking a vehicle and maintain a consistent routine, especially when schedules change.

Police also urge people to keep vehicles locked when unattended. Officials said nearly 30% of hot car deaths involving children happen after a child gets into a vehicle on their own.

Anyone who sees a child alone inside a vehicle should call 911 immediately.

Illinois State Police emphasized that children should never be left alone in a vehicle, even for a few minutes.