On average in the United States, 37 children die from heatstroke each year as a result of being left in a vehicle. Between 1990 and 2016 there have been a total of 793 vehicular heatstroke deaths. Over half (55%) are a result of being left behind unknowingly by a parent or caregiver. Another 28% occurred due to a child getting into the vehicle on their own.
According to KidsAndCars.org, 27 children have died in hot cars so far this year. The KidsAndCars.org safety campaign, “Look Before You Lock,” provides parents and caregivers an important safety checklist aimed at preventing heatstroke tragedies.
Avoid leaving your child alone in the car:
- Get in the habit of always opening the back door and checking the back seat before leaving your vehicle.
- Put something you will need, like a purse or a cell phone, in the back seat so you will have to open the back door to get it once you are parked.
- Keep a stuffed animal in baby’s car seat. Each time your child is in the car seat, put the stuffed animal in the front seat as a reminder that baby is in the car.
- Ask your child care provider to call if you have not dropped your child off as usual.
Make sure your child can’t get into your car:
- Keep your vehicle locked at all times, even in your garage or driveway.
- Keep your keys and clickers in a safe place out of your child’s reach.
- If your child goes missing, check inside your vehicle and trunk right away.
Did you know motor oil doesn’t wear out? It just gets dirty. Which means it can be recycled and reused in several ways. All over the U.S. there are used oil collection locations available. These organizations allow the average Joe to dispose of old motor oil, which in turn keeps that oil out of our ground water and waterways. Next time you change the oil in your car, or even your lawnmower, collect the dingy oil in a metal or plastic container to be recycled. These collection centers should also accept old oil filters and bottles. To find a collection center near you, visit 
School is starting all across the country. Now is a good time to teach, or remind, your little ones about school bus safety.
Today marks the close of 2015 National Work Zone Awareness Week which advised drivers to “Expect the Unexpected”. Road worker safety is always good to have in the forefront of your mind, especially in the coming summer months as road construction will undoubtedly increase. The main thing to remember when you see orange (signs, cones, and vests) along the road is slow down and drive more cautiously. Keep your focus on navigating through the changing lanes, speeds and road conditions. The smallest distraction could be disastrous. Obey the posted construction signs and workers giving you instructions. And if safety for all is not a good enough motivator, remember almost all states have larger fines for speeding and other traffic infractions in a construction zone.
Animals on the road are always a possibility. Often, you see the animal too late and don’t have much room to maneuver. If you realize hitting an animal is going to happen, stay calm and avoid slamming on your brakes or swerving suddenly. This could lead to a serious traffic collision. If you strike an animal, attempt to find the owner. If the owner can’t be found, call the Humane Society or the local police department. Do not try to move or transport an injured animal, and never leave an injured animal to die.
Right Side of the Road 