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Locking your keys in the car can not only be frustrating – it can also be extremely dangerous.
RAA roadside assistance patrol staff unlocked a staggering 14,386 vehicles last financial year.
Of these, however, 309 involved a child locked in the vehicle and another 237 had a pet inside.
Not only can a young child or animal become distressed when locked in a car, in warmer temperatures their lives can be put in danger.
That’s why we train our new patrol members the techniques used to break into a vehicle and – in an emergency – how to safely break a toughened glass window using the RAA approved method and tooling.
Our Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure, Charles Mountain, said internal vehicle temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels in warmer weather, and that winding down windows or parking in the shade doesn’t make much difference.
“Don’t be tempted under any circumstances to leave children or animals unattended in a parked vehicle in warm weather, let alone on a hot day.”
We’re also reminding drivers to be aware of their keys are at all times, to minimise the risk of their car being accidentally locked with a passenger still inside.
“It’s very important with modern vehicles that have features such as keyless entry, which makes it very easy to inadvertently lock your keys inside,” Mr Mountain said.
If you do accidentally lock a child or animal in a car, act quickly to reduce the risk of them suffering dehydration or heat stroke. All South Australians can contact RAA Road Service on 131 111 for help in emergency situations.