Governor Pat McCrory And First Lady Ann McCrory Encourage Child And Pet Safety During Hot Weather | Eastern North Carolina Now

    Raleigh, N.C.     Governor Pat McCrory and First Lady Ann McCrory are asking North Carolinians to join them in preventing heat related injuries and deaths of North Carolina's children and pets.

    Here are some tips from experts on how to prevent heat related injuries to children and pets:

1. Make it a habit to check the backseat of your car before leaving your vehicle and locking the doors, even if you are sure your children and pets are not with you. In addition, you can leave something important to your daily life, like your cellphone or shoe, in the backseat to help you remember to check.
2. Even if your car is in your garage, always lock the doors to prevent a child or pet from entering the vehicle. Additionally, keep your car keys away from children so they cannot enter the car without your knowledge.
3. When taking your pet to the beach, bring lots of water and a bowl. Do not let pets drink ocean water, as this may cause vomiting, diarrhea and a trip to the vet. Keep pets wet and in the shade.
4. Run with your pet less often in the summertime, and try to run in the mornings and evenings when it's cooler. Be sure to rest in the shade and bring water for yourself and your pet.
5. Contact your veterinarian immediately if heatstroke is suspected. Wet the pet with cool water (not ice), keep him in air conditioning and encourage him to drink cool water (not ice).

    During the day, temperatures in a closed car can increase 40 degrees above the outside air temperature in a few minutes. Even if it is a comfortable 60 degrees outside, a closed-car interior can reach 100 degrees on a sunny day.

    If you see a child or pet alone in a car, do not hesitate to call 911 and the local police department.

• Contact: Crystal Feldman
•     govpress@nc.gov