Child locked in a car: what to do?

When a child locked in a car happens, the first minutes matter. Follow these steps to act safely and without panic.

What to do right now

1. Try to get the child to unlock the door.
2. Call 911 immediately if the child is alone or it is hot.
3. Break the window furthest from the child if needed.
4. Get them out and cool them down.

Mistakes to avoid

• Acting before removing the immediate source of danger.
• Panicking or skipping the official procedures.
• Following unverified advice from the internet.

How to prevent this in the future

Regular checks and keeping important documents and numbers in one safe place go a long way. Note the emergency number for your country and keep it visible at home.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do first?

Ensure everyone is safe, remove the source of danger, then call the relevant number or start the official procedure.

When should I call emergency services?

Whenever there is a risk to life, serious injury or a fire. When in doubt, call and let them decide.