Children’s Museum of Houston to Host Summer Auto Safety Event

HOUSTON (KIAH) – As the summer season continues, temperatures continue to rise. Although the Houston area has recently experienced torrential rain and Hurricane Beryl, the summer heat is back and will heat up the area again. It’s a perfect reminder of car safety. On average, 37 children under the age of 15 die from heatstroke after being left in a car. In 2024 alone, 15 deaths were reported. Texas is the state with the highest number of child deaths in hot cars, with a total of 142 between 1998 and 2023.

The Children’s Museum of Houston is working to reduce and eliminate child deaths caused by hot cars. The organization is hosting a summer car safety event featuring the longtime children’s character “Clifford: The Big Red Dog,” sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land. The free event aims to educate children about car safety, especially during these summer months. Attendees can receive a free “Clifford Takes a Ride” storybook and a few giveaways, such as a Clifford T-shirt and plush toy.

The event will take place on July 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, located at 198 Kempner Street in Sugar Land. Pre-registration is required to attend the event.

Here are some ways you can help prevent heat-related deaths as a caregiver or bystander, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Caregiver

• Always look behind you before leaving the vehicle. For safety, check every part of your car.
• Never leave a child unattended in a car for a long period of time. The temperature inside will increase over time.
• Place a personal item, such as your purse or briefcase, in the back seat. This will remind you to check behind you before you leave.

Spectator

• Always lock your vehicle. Even if you don’t have children, a child nearby could get into your car if it’s unlocked.
• If you see a child trapped in a car, call 911. Try to get the child out of the hot car and take him or her to a cool place.