High temperatures can lead to heat deaths, especially in children

LAKE CHARLES, Louisiana (KPLC) – The state of Louisiana is experiencing high temperatures this summer, and a major danger is that children can die from heat stroke if left unattended in a vehicle.

In the summer of 2023, about 80 deaths from heat stroke were reported in Louisiana.

Some of these deaths occurred because of prolonged periods of time in a vehicle without air conditioning, especially children.

“Last year, statistically, 29 children died of heat stroke. A quarter of those were accidents. We want to be considerate and make sure people have enough fluids and air conditioning,” said Westlake Fire Chief Jonathan Duff.

If you are sitting in a vehicle and the temperature outside is 34 degrees but it feels like it is 40 degrees, that is only three degrees less than the temperature at which a child can die if left in a vehicle without air conditioning.

“I believe that a child’s body temperature rises about five times faster than an adult’s, and if the internal body temperature reaches 106 degrees, they can die from heat stroke,” Duff said.

Duff offers tips on how to avoid deaths due to excessive heat in the vehicle.

“To prevent things from being left in a vehicle that is still active, we can do things like put something valuable inside, leave a bag in the back seat or leave a reminder. Many vehicles are equipped with warning systems,” said Chief Duff.

Whether child, senior citizen or pet: excessive heat can affect everyone.

Whether you’re a parent or a bystander, quick action can save a life. If you see a child alone in a car, call 911 immediately.

The Louisiana Department of Health has updated its website with the Heat Dashboard to provide Louisiana residents with tips, data and statistics to help them weather the extreme heat.

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