Ambulance Victoria (AV) is reminding the community that hot cars can be life threatening, as call-outs for people trapped in parked vehicles remain alarmingly high.
This summer, AV paramedics have already responded to more than 230 reports of people locked in cars, highlighting the ongoing danger as temperatures soared across the state.
From 1 December 2023 to 30 November 2024, paramedics were called to a total of 1,211 cases.
AV Director Regional and Clinical Operations Steve Doyle said although the data suggests cases have reduced over the last 12 months, the number of call-outs during hot weather is deeply concerning.
"We are urging Victorians to never leave kids or elderly people in parked cars, even on mild days," Steve said.
"The temperature inside a vehicle can double and become deadly within minutes.
"It is particularly dangerous for children to be left inside vehicles, as a child's body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult."
Thankfully, of the 1,211 call-outs over the past year, paramedics treated 134 patients at the scene, and only one patient required transport to hospital.
Steve emphasised this is no time for complacency.
"We're asking parents and carers to always take children and elderly people with them whenever they get out of the car," Steve said.
"We know that children can often become accidentally locked in cars.
"We encourage parents and carers to make sure keys are kept with them and to be alert while loading family members in and out of vehicles.
"Accidents happen, and if someone does get locked in a vehicle, call Triple Zero (000)."
Triple Zero Victoria Executive Director Emergency Communications Services Michael Fawcett said between December to February each year, the emergency call-taking and dispatch service receives an average of more than 480 calls from people reporting children left in hot cars.
"Last summer, Triple Zero (000) calls from the suburbs of Pakenham, Melton, Hoppers Crossing, Craigieburn and Dandenong were most common," Michael said.
"These incidents are still happening too frequently across the state.
"Don't hesitate to call Triple Zero (000) if you see a child in a car on a warm day because temperatures can become dangerously high very quickly."
Steve said high temperatures increase the risk of serious heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Tragically, heat stroke is fatal in up to 80 per cent of cases, yet it is entirely preventable.
"Most at risk of heat stroke are elderly people, young children, and those with medical conditions; however, heat and heat-related illnesses can affect anybody, especially if you're not prepared or haven't taken preventative action," Steve said.
"Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms such as confusion, seizures, collapsing, or loss of consciousness, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
"To reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day, wear a hat and sunscreen, and avoid being outside during the hottest time of the day, if possible."
Paramedics are also urging Victorians to be alert around water as crowds continue to flock to pools, beaches and inland waterways to escape the heat.
Steve said it is important Victorians take steps to keep themselves and loved ones safe.
"Read the signs around waterways and beaches to familiarise yourself with the dangers, and remember that drownings can occur in familiar locations," he said.
"Be alert whether you're planning to enter the water or not, and always keep watch on children in and around the water.
"Never swim alone, let people know where you're going and don't swim after drinking alcohol."
This summer, if you need urgent healthcare, but it's not life-threatening, you can help to save paramedics for emergencies by seeking free help in three ways:
- walk into an Urgent Care Clinic, open late and on weekends,
- video call with Virtual Emergency Care 24/7 or
- phone 1300 60 60 24 for Nurse-on-Call 24/7.
