How to protect kids sitting in hot cars

Extreme heat can be especially dangerous for small children, especially those seated in a vehicle.

Even on a day that may not feel too hot for adults, for babies it can be deadly.

Small children cannot regulate their body temperature like adults can.

Regardless of age, kids should not be left in a hot car for any amount of time. It can take just minutes for heat stroke to set in.

Experts say to avoid tragic accidents, the best thing a parent can do is slow down and be present.

"As a parent, you're the one who's responsible for them," said Dr. Thomas Phelps of the Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital. "So if you're busy and multi-tasking and doing ten things, your presence to yourself and to the baby are going to put the baby at risk."

Even if you're driving in the car, you need to do what you can to keep it cool. If you don't have air conditioning, keep the windows down to get a good breeze going.

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