Hailey
As of 2025, the National Safety Council has reported that 13 children have died nationwide after being left in hot vehicles.
Although this is notably lower than the average annual toll of 37 deaths, emergency officials in Wichita, Kansas, are stressing that even a single incident is too many—and the public must remain vigilant.
Kansas Heat Poses Serious Risk Inside Vehicles
During summer in Kansas, daily temperatures often climb into the mid-80s to nearly 100°F. However, inside a parked vehicle, the heat can soar far beyond that in just a few minutes.
“If it’s 80 degrees outside, sitting inside a car for just 20 minutes can cause the internal temperature to spike dramatically—even if the windows are slightly cracked,” explained Victoria Chandler, Injury Prevention Coordinator at Ascension Via Christi.
“A car can become dangerously hot very fast. That’s why children should never be left alone inside.”
Kansas Avoids Deaths So Far in 2025, But June Saw Five Nationally
Although Kansas has not recorded any hot car deaths so far this year, five children nationwide died in June alone due to similar circumstances.
Experts warn that even a brief stop can lead to irreversible consequences if a child is left inside.
First Responders Urge Constant Vigilance
Wichita Fire Department Battalion Chief Jose Ocadiz emphasized that there’s never a safe moment to leave a child in the car, regardless of the reason.
“It’s never okay—even if you’re just running in quickly,” Ocadiz said. “Always take your child with you, no matter how short the errand might be.”
He added that anyone who notices a child left unattended in a locked vehicle during hot weather should immediately notify someone nearby or call 911 to potentially save a life.
While child hot car deaths in 2025 are lower than in previous years, the danger remains severe—especially during Kansas’s intense summer heat.
Parents, guardians, and bystanders must act responsibly and quickly to prevent further tragedies.
Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, even for a minute, and if you witness such a situation, report it immediately.