With summer temperatures soaring across the Hudson Valley, Rockland County Executive Ed Day and Sheriff Louis Falco III are issuing an urgent reminder to residents about the life-threatening dangers of leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles.
“This is not just a safety warning—it’s a matter of life and death,” said County Executive Day. “We must never leave a child or pet unattended in a car, especially in the heat.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, vehicle interiors can heat up by more than 20 degrees within just 10 minutes, even if windows are slightly open. On a typical hot day, temperatures inside a car can exceed 120°F, putting occupants at serious risk of heat stroke, organ failure, and death.
Children are especially vulnerable, with their bodies heating up three to five times faster than adults. Pets, too, can suffer heatstroke in a matter of minutes. Warning signs include heavy breathing, confusion, dizziness, absence of sweating, and unconsciousness.
“Dozens of children are killed each year from heatstroke after being left or trapped in a hot vehicle,” said Sheriff Falco. “These are entirely avoidable tragedies, and we ask parents and community members to remain vigilant.”
Authorities urge anyone who sees a child or pet alone in a vehicle to call 911 immediately. If the individual appears in distress, New York State law permits intervention to remove them from the vehicle.
In addition to vehicle safety, officials also shared key heat safety tips for the general public:
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Stay Hydrated: Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily; avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages.
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Eat Smart: Include hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and strawberries.
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Avoid Peak Heat: Stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when possible.
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Use Air Conditioning: Visit public places like libraries or malls if AC isn’t available at home.
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Protect Your Skin: Use SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Residents are encouraged to remain cautious, look out for one another, and prioritize safety as the region endures extreme heat conditions.