There's a reason that this sort of thing is illegal. It's an unsafe common thoughtless act by parents in the thousands that cost the lives of children by the thousands. If you really need to hear the dangers then let me, a mother of three, key you in.

Car Jackings- Though not as common as other results it does happen. Mom or Dad leaves the sleeping toddler in the backseat and along comes Mr. Robber. He sees an opportunity in your unlocked and running vehicle. What he doesn't see is little Tommy asleep in the back seat. Now, the parents have to watch a pray as the police search for their car and their child. Maybe the thief will be a decent human being for once in his life and drop the child somewhere safe or maybe not.

Over heating or freezing- 50% of parents from the ages of 18 to 24 believe it's okay to leave their child in a car unattended. Here's a tip for you. No matter what time of year it is take a thermometer in the car with you and wait awhile. Temperatures inside a vehicle can go up or down 18 degrees within an hour. Over heating is the leading cause of death and brain damage in cases where children were left in cars.

Accidents- You left the car running, the ac or heat is on, and your toddler is fastened in his car seat while you run inside to grab some milk. He can't get out of his seat, right? Well, kids learn new things everyday. Your child squirms out of his restraints and makes his way to the drivers seat. All kids like to pretend to drive. He shifts the car into gear and goes crashing through a busy intersection! Your child is thrown from the vehicle because he was standing without restraint in the drivers seat.

Kidnappings- The U.S. Dept of Justice statistics of kidnapping children in America estimates that 114,600 non-family abductions are attempted each year, with approximately 3,200 to 4,600 being successful. Do you really think that by leaving your child unattended in the car is safe?

Jail Time and costly fines- Though this should be the last thing to be considered over your child's life and health it is indeed a result. Even a five minute trip inside a store to grab a pack of cigarettes can land you in jail or with a hefty fine. There are good people out there who will see your children and call the police. It may not happen today or tomorrow but someone will eventually report you and your license plate.

So please consider this information. Save a child's life! Save your child's life and DO NOT LEAVE THEM IN THE CAR ALONE, EVER!

Learn more about this author, Kat Stovall.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about The dangers of leaving your child alone in the car ?
We want to hear your view. Write now!