From the Orange County Newsroom
Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) and Orange County Fire Rescue (OCFR) are partnering this summer to remind residents that leaving children or pets in unattended vehicles is both dangerous and illegal. Their joint effort comes at a critical time, as temperatures across Central Florida climb to their seasonal peak and emergency responders continue to receive alarming calls about preventable incidents.
Related: Extreme heat is becoming more common in the U.S. Here’s how to stay safe.
In recent weeks, both agencies have responded to emergencies involving children and animals trapped in sweltering cars. Officials stress that even on a mild day, a vehicle’s interior can become hazardous within minutes. Studies show that interior temperatures can rise by 20 degrees Fahrenheit in just 10 minutes, and after an hour, the inside of a car can be 40 to 50 degrees hotter than the air outside. Those conditions are not just uncomfortable—they are potentially fatal.
“People often underestimate how quickly the heat builds up,” said an OCFR spokesperson. “Rolling down the windows or parking in the shade doesn’t make it safe. The risk is immediate, and the consequences can be tragic.”
The agencies urge drivers to always check the backseat before locking their vehicles. Parents, caregivers, and pet owners should develop habits like placing personal items—such as a phone, purse, or briefcase—in the backseat as a reminder that a child or animal is onboard. They also encourage residents to call 911 immediately if they see a child or pet alone in a car.
Through public service announcements, social media outreach, and community events, OCAS and OCFR hope to spread a simple but vital message: look before you lock. This summer safety campaign underscores a shared goal—keeping every child and every animal in Orange County safe from a danger that is 100% preventable.
