Police: Do not leave children alone in cars, not even for a moment

The Croatian Police have issued a public warning urging parents and other responsible individuals not to leave children unattended in vehicles, even for a brief moment. This advisory comes as part of a broader campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers associated with leaving children in cars during periods of high temperatures. The initiative was developed in collaboration with the Educational Institute for Public Health, Dr. Andrija Štampar, and includes both legal information and expert recommendations. The primary goal is to sensitize caregivers to the risks involved and encourage them to take extra precautions to prevent harm to young children.

The police emphasize that even short stays inside a car can lead to severe consequences due to the rapid rise in body temperature among children compared to adults. A child's body heats up three to five times faster than an adult’s, making them particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses such as dehydration and heatstroke. In extreme cases, exposure to high temperatures for just 15 minutes can result in serious health complications, including brain and kidney damage, or even death. The police warn that opening a window or having a cool environment does not provide sufficient protection against these risks.

In their informational leaflet titled “Do Not Leave Children Alone in Vehicles,” the police highlight the legal implications of neglecting a child's well-being in this manner. Leaving a child unattended in a closed vehicle is considered a violation of their rights and could constitute the criminal offense of violating a child's rights. If a child suffers serious injury or dies as a result of being left alone in a car, the responsible person could face imprisonment ranging from three to 15 years. The police stress that this act represents a form of neglect and abuse, which is taken very seriously under the law.

The police also note that modern lifestyles, characterized by high levels of stress and numerous daily responsibilities, often contribute to instances where parents forget their children in vehicles. To mitigate this risk, they recommend that individuals become more aware of their automatic behaviors, especially when entering a car. For example, paying attention to physical cues such as touching the steering wheel or hearing ambient sounds can help reinforce mindfulness. Additionally, altering established routines—such as changing the order in which tasks are performed before exiting the car—can reduce the likelihood of forgetting a child.

Practical advice is also provided to ensure that items needed before leaving the car, such as bags, phones, or laptops, are placed on the back seat rather than in the front. This strategy helps remind individuals to check the rear seats before exiting the vehicle. Furthermore, the police suggest that parents should educate their children, in an age-appropriate manner, about how to react if they are accidentally left in a car. Options include exiting the vehicle, opening a window, or using any available means to signal for help.

The campaign underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to prevent tragic incidents involving children in hot vehicles. By combining legal education with practical tips, the police aim to foster a culture of heightened responsibility and care among caregivers. As summer approaches and temperatures rise, the message remains clear: never leave a child alone in a car, no matter how briefly.