Montreal, QC – As temperatures continue to rise in Montreal, health officials are reminding parents and caregivers to never leave children alone in cars or pools during a heat wave.
According to the Quebec government, there have been 10 reported cases of children being left alone in vehicles since the beginning of the year. This is a concerning number, especially during a heat wave when temperatures can quickly become dangerous.
Dr. Richard Massé, director of public health for the Montreal region, stresses the importance of never leaving children unattended in a car, even for a short period of time. “The temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, reaching dangerous levels within minutes,” he warns.
In addition to the risk of heatstroke, leaving children alone in a car can also put them at risk of abduction or injury from playing with the car’s controls.
Health officials also urge parents and caregivers to never leave children unattended in pools, even for a moment. Drowning is a leading cause of death for young children, and it only takes a few seconds for a child to drown.
To prevent accidents, it is recommended to always have a designated adult supervising children in and around pools. This adult should be free from distractions and able to swim.
In case of a heat wave, it is important to take precautions to keep children cool and hydrated. This includes staying in air-conditioned spaces, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.
If you see a child alone in a car or pool, do not hesitate to call 911. It could save a life.
Let’s all work together to keep our children safe during this heat wave. Remember, never leave children alone in cars or pools. Stay cool and stay safe, Montreal.
