FATIGUE, disrupted routines and lapses in concentration are among the leading factors behind cases of children being unintentionally left in vehicles, a public health expert has warned, as concerns grow over heat-related fatalities.
Public health expert Dr S Daarshini said such incidents, though often accidental, carry a high risk of death due to the rapid rise in temperatures within vehicles, particularly during hot weather conditions.
"Many people assume that slightly opening the windows is sufficient, but in reality it does not help to reduce the temperature inside the cabin.
"A child’s body heats up three to five times faster than that of an adult, thereby rapidly increasing the risk of heatstroke," she said.
She explained that temperatures inside a parked vehicle can exceed 40 to 50 degrees Celsius within a short period, even if windows are slightly open, creating life-threatening conditions.
Children are especially vulnerable, as their bodies heat up significantly faster than adults, increasing the likelihood of heatstroke in a matter of minutes.
To reduce the risk of such tragedies, she urged parents to adopt consistent safety practices and remain vigilant.
"Practise the concept of stop, look, lock — that is, stop, check and lock. Make sure you inspect the back seat before locking the vehicle.
"In addition, place important items such as handbags or wallets in the back so that you are required to open the rear door before leaving," she said.
She also recommended making it a habit to check the rear seats every time a vehicle is parked, as well as maintaining clear communication with caregivers or childcare centres.
"If the child does not arrive at the expected time, the caregiver should immediately contact the parents as an additional safety measure.
"At the same time, ensure that vehicles are always locked to prevent children from entering unnoticed.
"Meanwhile, members of the public should act immediately if they see a child left in a locked vehicle by promptly contacting emergency services," she said.
The warning comes amid heightened concern over extreme heat, with Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad recently urging the public to remain cautious as cases of heat-related illness rise.
Authorities have recorded 15 such cases so far this year, including one fatality involving a child, underscoring the dangers posed by prolonged exposure to high temperatures. - March 25, 2026
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