The NRMA is urging parents to keep track of their keys this summer after releasing new research revealing shopping centres are the most common place children and pets are locked in cars.

The three most common locations for NRMA Roadside assistance call outs for kids and pets locked in cars are car parks at shopping centres (45%), side streets (28%), and driveways and at home (20%).

Over the last 12 months NRMA patrols have responded to 1807 calls where a child or a pet has been locked in a car. While the majority were accidents, the number still remains high with concerns raised as the temperatures rise.

As we approach summer the NRMA is reminding parents and pet owners to be vigilant, not to leave their children and pets unattended in cars and make sure they know where their car keys are at all times.

NRMA Road Safety Expert Dimitra Vlahomitros tells Clinton Maynard parents should never risk leaving their children alone in the car, even for a brief period of time.

“Unfortunately, we are still seeing far too many children left unattended in the car, so we are again urging parents not to leave their children alone in the car. It is not worth the risk, even if you are quickly ducking into the shops,” Ms Vlahomitros says.

“In just a few short minutes, temperatures can increase significantly, posing a serious danger to children and pets locked in a car.”

“If you see a child unattended in a car and cannot locate the parents, call triple-zero and await instructions.”

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