North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey joined state officials today in Benson to highlight the dangers of hot vehicles and to provide safe driving tips ahead of the 4th of July holiday. The event was held in collaboration with the Governor’s Highway Safety Program and the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.
During the event, speakers emphasized the importance of heightened vigilance around public safety as the region enters the hottest months of the year.
“This summer has been hotter than normal in North Carolina, and it only takes a few minutes for temperatures inside your car to reach dangerous levels,” said Commissioner Causey. “It is important to remind everyone that leaving a child or pet unattended in a car, even for a few minutes, can be more dangerous than people realize.”
Joining Commissioner Causey were Governor’s Highway Safety Program Director Mark Ezzell and Johnston County Sheriff Steve Bizzell. Safe Kids of Johston County, led by Partnership for Children of Johnston County, provided the thermostat illustrating the heat intensity inside of a vehicle.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that, on average, 37 children in the U.S. lose their lives each year after being left alone in hot vehicles. In just 10 minutes, the interior of a car can rise by 20 degrees—creating a dangerously lethal environment.
“These deaths are largely preventable,” added Commissioner Causey. “We must take every possible precaution to avoid such unnecessary tragedies.”
Officials also urged North Carolina drivers to exercise heightened caution as they prepare to hit the roads during the busy Fourth of July holiday weekend.
To learn more safe driving tips, visit the Governors Highway Safety website or NCDOI.gov.