RAA urges summer vigilance around children and pets in cars

The RAA is reminding South Australians to remain vigilant around vehicles throughout the summer months, following a continued rise in incidents involving children and pets accidentally locked in cars.

RAA patrols attended almost 800 call-outs last year involving loved ones trapped in vehicles — a 26 per cent increase on the previous year — equating to more than two incidents each day. Many occur during routine trips, often when keys are briefly misplaced while loading passengers.

The RAA warns that temperatures inside parked vehicles can rise rapidly, even on mild days, creating a dangerous situation for children and animals.

Drivers are being urged to keep keys on them at all times, avoid giving keys to children, and consider opening a window when loading passengers.

Motorists are also reminded never to leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, even for short periods or with air conditioning running. If someone is accidentally locked inside a car, RAA patrols can assist, or triple zero should be called in an emergency.