Paramedics called to almost 1500 cases of people locked in hot cars
As Victoria prepares for today’s scorching temperatures paramedics are on alert for yet more cases of children left in locked cars.
VIC News
Don't miss out on the headlines from VIC News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
More than 30 Victorians a week — mainly babies and toddlers — are having to be rescued from potentially deadly locked cars.
As the state prepares today’s scorching temperatures, paramedics are on alert for yet more dangerous cases.
Between January 1 and November 30 Ambulance Victoria paramedics responded to 1491 call-outs for people locked in vehicles, with nine out of 10 cases a child under three years old.
In the most serious cases 14 patients had to be transported to hospital for treatment, while another 559 required paramedic treatment at the scene.
Health Minister Jenny Mikakos will today relaunch the Never Leave Kids in Cars advertising and public information campaign in an effort to try and prevent tragedies.
“It’s simple: Do not ever leave your kids alone in the car. The consequences can be deadly and tragic,” Ms Mikakos said.
“I urge all Victorians to play it cool this summer and follow our simple steps to survive the heat — drink water, seek out airconditioned buildings, plan ahead and check on those most at risk.
“Don’t let a moment of complacency or frustration put your loved ones at risk.”
Hoppers Crossing is Victoria’s worst area for people trapped in vehicles, with paramedics called out to 31 instances already this year.
MORE NEWS
METRO FAILS PERFORMANCE TARGET AGAIN
PUPPY ATTACK PROMPTS PET SITTER WARNING
Frankston (25), Pakenham (23), Carrum Downs (19), Craigieburn (19), Preston (19), Point Cook (17), Epping (17), Bendigo (17) and Narre Warren (17) also have high rates of dangerous car lock ins.
Despite warnings peaking in summer, the number of children locked in cars has remained stable in recent years. From September 2016 to August 2017 paramedics responded to 1696 cases, while a year later three were 1587 cases.
From September 2018 to August 2019 there were 1656 Victorian cases of people being locked in cars.