Forgotten baby syndrome

Children being left in the car, especially in the summer, is a tragedy with fatal consequences that happens more often than you think. To prevent this from happening, here are some tips and steps you can take.

Daily routines and habits

• Before getting out of the car, check the back seat. Make this a habit, even if you are sure the car is empty.
• Put an essential item in the back seat. For example, leave your purse, phone, or work ID card there, or anything else that you have to use during the day.
• Every time you lock the car, look in through the window and check that no one is left inside, even if you don’t have children in the car that day.
• When you put your child in their car seat, place their teddy or one of their toys in the front seat as a visual reminder.
• If your daily routine changes for any reason, be sure to check the back seat before you go anywhere.

Take advantage of technology

• Use reminders on your phone to prompt you to check the back seat when you arrive at your usual destination.
• Mobile apps.  Some apps are designed to remind you to check that the car is empty before locking it.
• Car alarm systems. There are devices you can install in your car that sound an alarm if they detect movement after the car has been parked and locked.

Communication and Collaboration

• Ask your child’s nursery or school if they have a system in place to notify you if your child does not arrive at school as planned.
• Communicate with other caregivers. If there are two caregivers, make sure it is clear who is in charge of the child each day. A text message or call can confirm that the child has arrived safely at their destination.

Education and awareness

• Teach children to make noise and draw attention to themselves if they are ever left alone in the car.

Introducing these strategies into your daily routine can not only prevent children from being forgotten in the car, with all the heartache this can cause, but it can also save their lives.