The mercury in thermometers continues to rise, and as the days get hotter, the dangers caused by the heat also increase.

One of the biggest concerns during the summer is when pets or children are left inside vehicles. Studies show that even in 70-degree weather, the interior of a car with no air circulation can reach 100-degrees in a matter of minutes. In the sometimes 90-degree weather of July, the danger is multiplied exponentially. Perry Police Chief Eric Vaughn says the situation is preventable, and offers advice on how to avoid it. “Some of the tips I’ve heard now is, if you put your child in the backseat, maybe put your purse, maybe put your cell phone back there — so you’re not texting and driving — so you remember that you have your child back there also.”

Vaughn adds, it’s not even a good idea to leave kids or pets inside the car with the engine running and air conditioning on. He explains, any number of malfunctions could occur that may lead to the engine failing and turning off, or even igniting and starting a fire. Finally, Vaughn says if a passerby sees a child or animal locked inside a vehicle, they shouldn’t try to break the windows to get them out, but instead they need to contact the police department.