KSHB: Troubling Statistics: Kids left in hot cars

Last year alone, 52 children died in hot cars, and this year there have already been 14 deaths, according to kidsandcars.org. The shocking and vital thing to know is that young children can experience heat stroke even in mild temperatures in the upper 50s or 60s. 

Terry Dickinson, RN, and car seat safety expert Saint Luke's North Hospital spoke to 41-Action News about reminders for parents and caregivers about not leaving that precious cargo in the backseat unintentionally. Considering a child's core body temperature rises three to five times faster than adults, any amount of time unattended in a car can be dangerous. 

Watch 41-Action News' first segment where Terry explains the greenhouse effect and how even tented windows and facing away from the sun doesn't make a difference.

But why or how can this happen? Summer is a busy time with a change in routines. Those changes, combined with distracted driving, could lead to tragedy. Hear some tips on how to prevent this from happening, even when you're parked at home. 

It doesn't take long for cars to hear up. Even with tinted windows and parked facing away from the sun, temperatures rise quickly. Hear how fast a car can heat up in just minutes. 

Here are a few reminders recommended to combat this problem:

• Place your purse or shoes in the backseat.
• Place your child's favorite stuffed animal in the front seat as a reminder to check the back.
• "Look before you lock."
• When parking in your driveway, or even the garage, be sure to lock the doors. That way, a child won't get inside and accidentally lock themselves in.