Reminder to avoid locking passengers in the car

THROUGHOUT the 2024 to 2025 summer period, Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics have already been called out to more than 230 reports of people locked in hot cars.

AV officers are reminding people not to leave their children in the car alone, especially in warm weather, as outcomes can be fatal.

According to AV regional and clinical operations director Steve Doyle, incidents have decreased but statistics are still at a concerning level.

Between the end of 2023 and late 2024, there were 1211 callouts for people locked in cars in Victoria.

Paramedics treated 134 people on-site and one was taken to hospital, but the severity of the issue should not be ignored.

“We are urging Victorians to never leave kids or elderly people in parked cars, even on mild days,” Mr Doyle said.

“The temperature inside a vehicle can double and become deadly within minutes.

“It is particularly dangerous for children to be left inside vehicles, as a child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult.

“We’re asking parents and carers to always take children and elderly people with them whenever they get out of the car.

“We know that children can often become accidentally locked in cars.

“We encourage parents and carers to make sure keys are kept with them and to be alert while loading family members in and out of vehicles.

“Accidents happen, and if someone does get locked in a vehicle, call Triple Zero (000).”

Triple Zero Victoria emergency communications services executive director Michael Fawcett said people are being locked in cars too often across Victoria.

“Don’t hesitate to call Triple Zero if you see a child in a car on a warm day because temperatures can become dangerously high very quickly,” he said.

“Most at risk of heat stroke are elderly people, young children, and those with medical conditions, however, heat and heat-related illnesses can affect anybody, especially if you’re not prepared or haven’t taken preventative action.

“Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency.

“If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms such as confusion, seizures, collapsing or loss of consciousness, call Triple Zero immediately.

“To reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day, wear a hat and sunscreen, and avoid being outside during the hottest time of the day, if possible.”