WATCH: Florida Emergency Management, Department of Health Discuss Hot Car Safety

CAUTION: car interior temperatures can exceed 120 degrees in just minutes

ABOVE VIDEO: Florida Emergency Management, Department of Health Discuss Hot Car Safety

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — As temperatures continue to rise across the Sunshine State, officials from the Florida Department of Emergency Management and the Florida Department of Health gathered at the Florida State Capitol this week to raise awareness about the dangers of leaving children and pets in hot vehicles.

The joint event on Capitol steps emphasized a critical seasonal safety message: “Look Before You Lock.”

Representatives from both departments addressed a crowd of state employees, media, and community advocates, urging Floridians to take simple yet life-saving precautions during the hot spring and summer months. Demonstrations using temperature gauges inside a parked car illustrated how quickly interior temperatures can rise, often exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit in just minutes.

“Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a car can become deadly in under 10 minutes,” said FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie. “Our goal is to prevent tragedies by educating the public and reminding everyone to double-check the back seat before walking away from a vehicle.”

Florida ranks among the top states for child hot car deaths, according to national safety data. In 2023, five heatstroke-related deaths of children in vehicles were reported in Florida alone — all preventable.

Dr. Kenneth Scheppke, Deputy Secretary for Health at FDOH, spoke on the physiological impact of heatstroke, especially in children. “A child’s body heats up three to five times faster than an adult’s,” he explained. “In just minutes, their core temperature can reach lethal levels. These aren’t just numbers — they are heartbreaking realities.”

The departments also announced a new public service campaign that includes radio spots, social media outreach, and partnerships with childcare providers to distribute reminder stickers and window decals.

During the event, parents who had previously lost children to vehicular heatstroke shared their stories, urging attendees to become advocates in their own communities. Their emotional testimonies served as a stark reminder of the campaign’s importance.

Officials ended the press conference with a call to action: if you see a child or pet alone in a car, call 911 immediately. Florida law protects Good Samaritans who act in good faith to rescue those in danger.

“We all have a role to play in protecting our most vulnerable,” Guthrie added. “This is not just a parent’s issue — it’s a community issue.”

Floridians are encouraged to visit FloridaDisaster.org and FloridaHealth.gov for more information and educational resources.

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