Many parents balk at the notion that they could ever forget their child in the backseat of a car, but research indicates that Forgotten Baby Syndrome (FBS) can happen to anyone. It occurs when caregivers arrive at their destination and are supposed to drop the child off at daycare or school but continue with their day, oblivious to the fact that the child is strapped into a car seat in the backseat. Here’s information on how to prevent leaving a child in a hot car and what to know if a kid is locked in a hot car.
Child locked in a hot car? How does it happen?
Tips to avoid leaving a child in a hot car
There are several products and services on the market that aim to assist caregivers in ensuring the safety of the children in their care. The GPS app Waze offers a child reminder notification that is available for both Android and iPhone users. And, until auto manufacturers standardize rear seat reminder systems in all vehicles, the Ride N Remind Back Seat Reminder System – which can be purchased on Amazon – can be a lifesaving option for busy caregivers.
There are also some low-tech reminders that caregivers may want to implement immediately, like leaving a note or stuffed animal in the front seat or putting your cell phone in the backseat near the child. Caregivers can also ask childcare providers to call and check in if their child doesn’t show up as expected as an added safety measure.
“It has never happened to me or anyone I know, but it can happen. Things happen. Sometimes just a change in your schedule or being sleep-deprived from having a newborn,” Catherine S. told Popsugar. “I always leave my bag on the floor of the back seat to not forget.”
Another important facet of FBS to consider is the racial disparities within the justice system.
Statistics indicate that Black defendants were more likely to be charged and receive longer sentences than white defendants, according to research by the University of South Carolina that considered a number of factors when it comes to cases of vehicular heatstroke.
Children’s body temperature rises three times faster than that of an adult, which means that time is of the essence. If you encounter a child locked in a hot car, call 911 immediately and wait near the car until help arrives.
