NEW! Safety In and Around Vehicles

Drivers

• Walk all the way around your parked car to check for kids, pets or toys before entering your vehicle.
• Make sure young children are always with an adult when getting in and out of your vehicle.

Caregivers

• Select safe play areas - away from parked or moving cars.  Know where the children are playing.
• Firmly hold the hand of each child when walking near moving vehicles and in driveways, parking lots or on sidewalks.

Parents and Caregivers

• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, even with the window slightly open.
• Always lock your car and truck - especially at home.  Keep keys and remote entry devices out of children's sight and reach.
• Watch children closely around vehicles, especially when loading and unloading.
• Be alert when dropping off children - especially sleeping infants - at a child care center or somewhere that might not be your normal routine.
• Place something that you'll need at your next stop on the floor of the back seat.  This simple act could prevent you from for getting your children.
• Teach children that trunks are used only for cargo, and they are not a safe place to play.
• Show children how to locate the emergency release found in newer cars.
• If a child is missing, check vehicle trunks right away.
• Always lock a vehicle's doors and trunk - especially at home - and keep the keys out of children's reach.

For more safety information, contact Safe Kids Mid-South, headquartered at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center at (901) 287-6730.