HOUSTON—Safety advocates are pushing Congress to keep kids safe from hot cars. More kids have died in hot cars than ever before, a record 41 children so far this year.
Texas has had the most hot-car deaths in the nation with 11 so far, many in Houston.
Just two weeks ago, a two-year-old boy was found dead in a car. It happened in northwest Harris County on Dentwood. Police said his parents had gone to the store and were distracted by an autistic child when they got home. They forgot about the toddler in the back seat and after two hours, found him dead on the floor of the car.
Officials said hot-car deaths are on the rise. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is considering a petition to include safety belt reminder chimes for all seating positions.
Automakers argue it’s not so easy. They say people often disregard the chimes and alarms inside of cars and there is no way to create a fail-proof system.
Still, safety advocates say with as many alarms that are already in cars, just for leaving your lights on or keys in the ignition, certainly the most precious cargo, children should be safeguarded.
Many alarms have already been designed, including one by NASA. Another is just a tether rope that attaches the car seat to your key chain. You can’t leave without taking your child with you.
There are tips to help you remember your little ones: Always leave your purse or other items in the backseat so you have to go back there when you get out of the car, or leave a baby item in your front seat, like a large stuffed animal as a reminder.
