Police Issue ‘Hot Cars’ Warning

It’s hot as heck across southern Ontario and police are warning folks to be mindful of the heat, especially when it comes to children and pets left in vehicles.

“The temperature can be deadly,” said OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt.

That was the case in Burlington last week when a three-year-old boy died in a parked SUV on a hot day.

Paramedics pronounced the boy dead at the scene. 

The preliminary cause of death was determined to be hyperthermia.

“This is something that can happen very quickly,” said Schmidt.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Milton and Halton Hills.

Daytime temps are expected to reach at least 30 C, feeling like 36 C with the humidity.

First responders say they’re hoping to prevent another tragedy.

If you see a child or animal left unattended in a parked vehicle,  “call us first,” said Peel Regional Police Const. Harinder Sohi.

Dialling 911 may not be enough.

You can try getting into the vehicle if you think there’s an immediate risk to the person or animal, said Sohi.

Schmidt concurs.

“If that involves having to break a window, that may be what you need to do to save a life,” said Schmidt.

Temperatures are predicted to be lower on Tuesday with daytime highs expected to remain below 30 C.

Photo courtesy of Halton Regional Police