Parents are being warned not to leave their children in cars during summer as new statistics reveal Melton is one of the top 10 Victorian postcodes for ambulance call-outs to help kids stuck in vehicles.
The data shows Ambulance Victoria responded to 28 Melton call-outs in the year to August, 2017.
There were 1696 callouts across the state in that period, with most involving toddlers and babies.
Werribee (43), Narre Warren (42) and Tarneit (41) and Pakenham (38) topped the state for call-outs.
Kororoit MP Marlene Kairouz urged the Melton residents against taking risks with many hot days ahead.
“It may seem challenging for busy parents, but every time you get out of the car – even just for a moment – take your kids with you,” Ms Kairouz said.
“Knowing your kids are safe is worth it.”
The data coincides with the launch of a new state government campaign, Never Leave Kids in Cars, which aims to raise awareness, with ads to run on television, radio and social media.
Studies have shown that body temperatures of children rise three to five times faster than an adults – putting them at greater risk of life-threatening heat stroke, dehydration and organ damage.
In Victoria, it is against the law to leave children unattended, with offenders facing fines of up to $3900, jail for six months or both.
