Summer in Nevada County can be beautiful, but it also comes with risks we don’t always think about—one of the biggest being children accidentally left in hot cars. Even on what feels like a mild day, temperatures inside a parked vehicle can skyrocket in minutes, creating dangerous and potentially deadly conditions. The good news? Hot car tragedies are preventable when we make safety a daily habit.

You don’t need triple-digit temperatures for danger to set in. Studies show that on a 75°F day, the inside of a car can hit 100°F in just 10 minutes—and continue climbing from there. Cracking a window or parking in the shade doesn’t make enough of a difference to keep it safe.

Hot car safety isn’t just for parents—it’s for grandparents, babysitters, neighbors, and friends too. If you ever see a child alone in a car, call 911 immediately. In California, laws protect good Samaritans who act in emergencies to save a life.

Simple Habits to Keep Kids Safe

Look before you lock.
Always check the back seat every single time you park, even if you think it’s empty.

Put something you need in the back seat.
Keep your phone, purse, lunch bag, or work badge back there so you’re reminded to open the rear door.

Create daycare or school check-ins.
Ask your provider to call or text you if your child hasn’t arrived on time.

Set phone reminders.
Alarms or calendar alerts can help break autopilot mode on busy mornings.

Teach kids to never play in cars.
Keep vehicles locked at all times and keys out of reach.

None of us are immune to distractions, changes in routine, or mental overload. Building small safety habits now is the most effective way to protect our kids. Let’s work together to make sure Nevada County stays aware, informed, and proactive when it comes to preventing hot car incidents.