999 crews free 10 children from cars in past 12 months

Crews were called to rescue children in cars in the hottest summer months once in the Telford area and twice in south Shropshire last year, a Freedom of Information request to Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service has revealed.

Firefighters from Telford stations were called to free children trapped in cars five times in total last year, while crews in Shrewsbury were called to free a child once.

Crews based in Much Wenlock and Bishop’s Castle were called to free children from cars four times last year in total.

Now, as the warm weather looks set to continue over the coming week, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service warned drivers against leaving children and animals in cars.

Malcolm Stephenson, spokesman for Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We all know what can happen when children and animals are left in vehicles. Children in particular should never be left alone in a vehicle.

“Dogs and other pets cannot call for help if they get distressed. If you have no choice but to leave an animal in the car then make sure there is enough ventilation and water for them to drink. We just ask people to use their common sense, really.”

The Met Office is forecasting that the temperature will reach 20 degrees over the next week at its hottest.

No incidents where Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to free animals from vehicles were recorded last year.

The RSPCA said people should not be afraid to dial 999 if they see a dog in a car on a warm day as when it is 22 degrees, in a car it can reach 47 degrees within the hour.

The health of the animal in the car should first be established, such as if they are displaying signs of heatstroke.

Then, if the dog is not displaying signs of heatstroke, make a note of the car’s registration number. If you are at a shop, venue or event ask the staff to make an announcement to alert the owner of the situation.

You can also call the RSPCA’s 24-hour cruelty line for advice on 0300 1234 999.