A New Technology Could Stop Child Hot Car Deaths

So far this year, 17 children have tragically died after being left inside hot cars, but new technology has hit the market to try to prevent it from happening. It’s an alarm in the 2022 Genesis GV70 SUV that’s hidden in the vehicle’s roof over the back seat and the manufacturer says the alarm sounds as quickly as 10 seconds and the system also notifies the driver on their phone through the Genesis app.

According to Genesis, the potentially life-saving alarm system can detect a child even if their only movement is soft breathing. That means even if a kid is asleep or being really quiet, it’s still supposed to realize they’re there. “You want something that is more fine-tuned and able to detect those small motions that we’re making just by being a human, by breathing and our chest moving,” explains Dr.

Emily Thomas, an automotive safety engineer with Consumer Reports.

But the innovation does have downsides and Thomas says the biggest shortcoming is that the system only works after the vehicle has been locked. If you don’t have a new car with this high-tech feature, there are still things parents and caregivers can do now to prevent hot car deaths.Thomas recommends:

  • Create a routine where every single car ride, even if your kid isn’t with you, you check the backseat. She suggests putting your phone or wallet in the backseat so you get into the routine of looking in the back every time you get out of the car.
  • Put a visual reminder in the front seat, like a toy or pacifier.
  • And always keep your car locked at home and your keys out of reach. That way your kid doesn’t have access to get into the car and possibly get trapped inside without your knowledge.

Source:Good Morning America

Smiling boy

Photo: The Image Bank RF


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content