With temperatures rising as summer approaches, the Park Forest Fire Department is sounding the alarm about the dangers of leaving children unattended in hot cars.

Illinois ranks 17 among U.S. states with the highest number of child deaths related to hot car incidents between 1990 and 2023, according to a report by Kids and Car Safety, an advocacy group dedicated to tracking such incidents.

Park Forest Deputy Fire Chief Mark Cotrano said it is essential to take proactive measures to prevent these deaths, adding that it starts with education.

 "A car can become dangerously hot in as little as 10 minutes, especially on a hot day," Cotrano said. "For example, on an 80-degree day, the inside of a car can reach 109 degrees after 20 minutes."

Cotrano said even though children are at high risk of dying inside a hot car, they aren't the only people at significant risk. Older people, people with disabilities, and even pets could fall victim to being left inside a car, and it doesn't take long for someone to feel the devastating effects of being inside.

Cotrano added there are things parents can do to ensure they don't forget their children in the car.

"One thing you can do to make sure you don't leave anyone behind is by putting something you'll need in the back seat," Cotrano said. "After loading your family into the car, place an object you'll need on arrival in the back — perhaps your wallet, purse, or cell phone. This method will guarantee a thorough car check after parking."

For more information on how to keep you and your loved ones safe this summer, click here.