Officials urge drivers not to leave kids or pets unattended in hot cars

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – With temperatures expected to reach 90 on Wednesday, officials are reminding drivers not to leave kids or pets in hot cars.

It’s illegal in Massachusetts to confine an animal in a vehicle exposed to extreme weather conditions. This can result in a fine of $150. While there is no specific law against leaving children unattended in a car, the person in their care can still face child endangerment or neglect charges.

According to AAA, most car deaths occur in temperatures over 80 degrees. In just 10 minutes, the inside of a car can reach nearly 100 degrees.

22News spoke to Lieutenant Tony Spear from the West Springfield Fire Department about what to do if you see a child or pet locked in someone else’s car. “If there is time and you are able to, contact your emergency services, that’s the best thing to do. “Unless you see some life in danger the best thing you can do is contact emergency services, keep eyes on the vehicle whether it be a pet or child, and just wait for us to arrive,” said Spear.

Police, firefighters, or animal control can enter your vehicle if there’s an animal inside who’s in distress. A civilian can also enter your car to rescue a pet, but only after calling 911, and if there’s no other way for the animal to get out.

Local News

Human services workers rally for better wages

Dry Humor launches Pioneer Valley’s first non-alcoholic pop-up bottle shop

How schools are keeping students safe during summer-like weather

PVTA offering free bus and paratransit services for the summer

Kayleigh Thomas is a digital reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since 2022. Follow Kayleigh on X @kayleighcthomas and view her bio to see more of her work.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.