Phoenix, Ariz., June 28, 2010. It may seem unimaginable to leave a child or pet in a vehicle, but the untimely death of a 2-year-old Phoenix child yesterday is a stark reminder of a tragedy that can unfold during Arizona’s summer months.   

Last summer, between Memorial Day and Labor Day, AAA Emergency roadside service responded to 157 calls with children or pets locked inside a vehicle. 

If a child or pet is locked in a vehicle, AAA urges motorists to call 911, rather than the auto club. In addition, the auto club would like to remind motorists of the following tips for keeping children and pets out of harm’s way this summer:

• Never leave your vehicle running with children or pets inside. Many vehicles have automatic locking systems, meaning if you leave your car running and shut the door, your vehicle may automatically lock you out.
  
  
• Be alert when you walk past cars in parking lots or alongside the street.  Listen for noise and look for movement.  If you spot a child or pet inside a locked vehicle, call 911 immediately and follow instructions. 
  
  
• Keep vehicle locked and keys out of sight so children cannot get to them.
  
  
• Be aware of “breaking your routine.” If you have to rearrange responsibilities to transport a child or pet with your partner, or if you have to run additional errands that deviate from your normal day, find ways to remind yourself of your additional passenger. Try placing routine belongings in the back seat. Also, when traveling with groups, with multiple cars and people, never assume a child or pet is being taken care of.
  
  
• Warn your children about the dangers of playing in or around vehicles.
  
  
• Always get your children and pets out of the car first and then worry about getting shopping bags, groceries, etc.
  
  
• Teach your child never to play in the trunk. Keep the rear fold-down seats closed to help prevent kids from getting into the trunk from inside the car.
  
  
• Make sure child and pet care providers or anyone who transports your children or pets understand that children and pets should never be left alone inside a vehicle.

AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to nearly 800,000 Arizona members.  Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists.  Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.  In 2008, AAA was ranked the No. 1 “socially responsible” brand by Landor’s BrandAsset® Valuator.