Doha, Qatar: Qatar's Hamad Injury Prevention Program (HIPP) at Hamad Medical Corporation’s Hamad Trauma Center - a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Center — has issued a strong warning about the fatal risks of leaving children inside parked vehicles, even for a very short time.

With temperatures soaring during the peak of summer, HIPP is urging parents, caregivers, and drivers to take immediate precautions, highlighting how the internal temperature of a vehicle can rapidly exceed safe levels - even if it feels only moderately warm outside.

“The inside of a car can become dangerously hot within minutes,” said Tsoler Sekayan, HIPP Coordinator. “This creates a serious risk of heatstroke, dehydration, seizures, or death - especially for children under five, who absorb heat more quickly than adults.”

Sekayan also noted that many of these incidents occur unintentionally, especially when children fall asleep, or when adults become distracted or experience a break from their normal routine. Children with special needs are even more vulnerable, as they may not recognize or communicate danger.

To help prevent these tragic situations, HIPP has listed six key safety precautions:

1. Always account for all children when exiting the car

Before locking the vehicle, check the back seat to ensure that no child is left behind — especially sleeping or quiet children who can be easily missed.

2. Search your vehicle immediately if a child is missing

If a child goes missing, your parked car — including the trunk — should be the first place you check. Children may climb in unnoticed and become trapped.

3. Use visual reminders to avoid forgetting a child

Place important personal items such as a phone, wallet, or bag in the back seat near your child. You can also keep the child’s belongings (like a lunchbox or school bag) in the front seat as a reminder.

4. Keep vehicles locked and keys out of children’s reach

Always lock your vehicle, even at home, and store keys and remotes in places that children cannot access. This prevents them from entering or starting the car alone.

5. Do not allow children to play with car keys or inside vehicles

Children should never be permitted to play with car keys or use vehicles as a playground. Educate them early about the risks.

6. Use child safety locks and teach car safety rules

Activate the child safety locks on doors and windows. Teach your children not to touch car controls or locks unless accompanied by an adult.

Sekayan also advised parents to act quickly if a child shows any signs of heat-related illness, such as sweating, confusion, or dehydration: “Move the child to a cooler environment immediately and call 999 for emergency medical guidance.”

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and responsible during Qatar’s extreme heat conditions, as even a brief lapse in attention can lead to life-threatening consequences.

Courtesy:  The Peninsula