In recognition of National Heat Awareness Day today, the Baby Safety Alliance is encouraging “Stop. Look. Lock.,” a national campaign designed to help prevent child hot car deaths.
In recognition of National Heat Awareness Day May 29. 2026. the Baby Safety Alliance is encouraging “Stop. Look. Lock.,” a national campaign designed to help prevent child hot car deaths.
As temperatures rise, the risk increases. Hot car tragedies remain a leading cause of non-crash vehicle fatalities for children in the United States. On average, 37 children die in hot cars each year. Multiple deaths have already been reported in the United States this year.
“These incidents are heartbreaking, and each and every one of them is preventable,” said Lisa Trofe, Executive Director of the Baby Safety Alliance. “Creating one small habit, practicing Stop. Look. Lock. each time you exit your vehicle, can make all the difference.”
Many incidents follow common patterns, including changes in routine, a different caregiver transporting the child, a child remaining quiet in the back seat, or older children gaining access to an unlocked vehicle and becoming trapped.
“Stop. Look. Lock.” is a simple, repeatable habit caregivers can apply each time they exit the vehicle. Each time a vehicle is exited, STOP and LOOK in the rear seat to confirm that no child, pet, or other vulnerable passenger remains inside. Then LOCK doors to prevent a child from entering and becoming trapped. This habit reinforces awareness during busy times or changes in routine. The “ Stop. Look. Lock.” habit is most effective when combined with a few rules and everyday cues:
Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle — even for a moment.
Do not let children play in an unattended vehicle.
Request that childcare providers call if a child does not arrive as expected.
Always lock vehicle doors and trunks and keep keys out of children’s reach.
If a child is found alone in a vehicle, call 911 immediately and cool the child rapidly.
If a child is missing, check the vehicle first, including the trunk.
Use reminders that prompt a back seat check before leaving the vehicle, such as placing a purse, phone, or briefcase in the back seat.
“Today’s vehicles include more safety technology than ever before, but most cars on the road still do not have advanced rear seat detection systems,” said Joe Colella, Director of Child Passenger Safety at the Baby Safety Alliance. “Until all vehicles have those technologies, prevention depends on consistent caregiver awareness.”
Throughout the summer, the Baby Safety Alliance is sharing expert guidance, real-world scenarios, and educational resources to support families and communities.
