Texas Issues Urgent Warning After Spike in Child Hot Car Deaths

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has released a call to action for all Texans in the wake of the tragic deaths from leaving children in locked cars.

Horrific Child Car Deaths in Texas and America

Efforts to end this streak come from the latest news that Texas has seen a total of four child deaths in just a matter of two weeks. That number passes all of 2024 child deaths in locked cars, which was only three.

Within the entire United States in 2025 so far, there have been 15 hot car deaths, meaning Texas accounted for nearly 33% of the entire nation's total.

Obviously, we should all strive for zero deaths each and every year, but because this is our reality, some Texas agencies are speaking out on what signs to look for and how to avoid any accidents with children and hot cars.

Common Cause of Death Among Children in Cars

The most common cause of death inside a vehicle for children under 15 is a car crash, but right after that in second place is heat stroke. Whether it's a caregiver forgetting the child is in the car, or a young child entering a vehicle and not being able to get out.

Another possibility is a caregiver or parent leaving their child in the car, thinking they'll just be gone for a few minutes.

WARNING: Cracking a window down does not help your child or pet avoid heat stroke. This is never a suitable alternative.

DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford noted the dangers of rising temps inside vehicles:

The temperature inside a vehicle can rise nearly 20 degrees in 10 minutes, and heatstroke will occur when a child's body can't cool itself quickly enough. Children - and pets - should never be left in the car for any length of time.

Texas DSHS recommends these tips to keep kids safe during hot months:

• Never leave a child alone in the car, even if it's running with A/C on
• Always check the back seat before exiting your vehicle
• Never assume it won't happen to your children
• Place your wallet or phone in the back seat to force yourself to check after parking the car
• Keep your car locked at all times and the keys away from children
• Call 911 right away if you see a young child alone in a parked car

You can always learn more about heatstroke prevention from the Texas Heatstroke Task Force website, or about parenting tips when it comes to car rides and seat belts online as well.