Friday 16 December: The NRMA is urging motorists to remember to keep track of their car keys when entering and existing their vehicles as the organisation warns drivers to take care around their vehicles to avoid accidentally locking children and pets in cars.
In the last 12 months, NRMA Roadside assistance has responded to 4265 calls where a child or a pet has been stuck in a car, the highest number in the last ten years. The overwhelming majority of cases occur unintentionally and often because parents and pet owners accidentally lock their keys in the car.
Road Safety Expert, Dimitra Vlahomitros from the NRMA said the temperature inside a hot car could almost double the temperature outside and it would not take long for serious injury or death to occur to a child or pet locked in a car.
“Everyone has gotten in their car after a warm day and felt the scorching heat in the car, or the burn of their seatbelt. It’s a recipe for disaster if a child or pet is accidentally locked in this situation.
“We know we’re expecting more rain this summer, but it doesn’t have to be a really hot day to become very dangerous very quickly for young children and pets,” Ms Vlahomitros said.
“A child locked in a car is not only distressing for the baby, but also for the parent or carer. While it is a highly stressful situation, it is important to try to remain calm to help prevent distress for your child.”
“Some cars are able to be locked while the keys are still inside them, so it is important to make sure you know where your keys are before closing the boot or doors,” Ms Vlahomitros said.
“The two locations our patrols are called out to the most to help get kids out of cars are shopping centres and households.
“Whether you’re packing the car full of groceries or packing the car for a holiday, make sure you know where your keys are and don’t leave your keys with children to play with while loading up the car.”
NRMA Roadside Patrol Officer, Tony Tamine, said children and pets locked in cars were prioritised by NRMA roadside assistance. "Regardless of whether you’re an NRMA Member we will be heading over to help you straight away, and in most cases we will arrive within 10 minutes,” Mr Tamine said.
“If your child is distressed, call 000. Emergency services can also assist and may be able to arrive sooner.”
Leaving an unattended child locked in a car under any circumstances is illegal and dangerous. Parents can be fined up to $22,000 under the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998.
Media contact: Katrina Usman 0432 760 940
