This common mistake could cost a child or pet their life, a message from police

A baby in rear facing car seat during a hot day. (Source: iStock/Getty Images)

Police say a hot car can become a death trap in minutes and too many people still underestimate the consequences.

As summer approaches, the OPP is issuing an urgent warning: “Never leave a child or pet alone inside a vehicle, even for a quick errand.”

Police say the temperature inside a parked car can spike by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes. Children and animals are particularly at risk because their bodies are not as efficient at regulating temperature.

“Even on a mild day, temperatures inside a vehicle can spike rapidly, increasing the risk of heatstroke, brain injury or death,” said police in a social media warning.

The OPP is reminding the public that cracking a window open does not do much to reduce the temperature inside a vehicle.

According to the province’s website, even on a day when temperatures reach 25 C, the inside of a parked car can hit 34 C and climb to as high as 50 C within an hour.

The easiest way to prevent a tragedy is to boycott this situation altogether. “Heat can kill in minutes,” said the OPP.

Authorities urge anyone who spots a child or pet alone in a hot car to call 911 immediately.

For pets, signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, heavy drooling, weakness, muscle twitching and vomiting. If an animal appears to be in distress or suffering abuse, call 1-833-9-ANIMAL.