The Bracebridge Fire Department had to save a child who was accidentally left in a locked car Thursday afternoon.
Mike Peake, deputy fire chief, says they were called around lunchtime. He explains the key was left in the vehicle before the child could get out. Peake says firefighters arrived quickly and were able to get the child out safely. He adds Muskoka Paramedic Services was on scene, too, to make sure the youth was okay.
“No blame to anybody,” says Peake. “It’s rarely, rarely, rarely, if ever the fault of the parent.”
Whether it’s a pet or a person, he recommends calling 911 right away. “We’re skilled enough to get into these vehicles and make sure everyone gets out safely,” continues Peake. He explains they have specialized tools that allow them to get into a vehicle without having to break a window.
In this situation, Peake points out the intention of the parents was not to leave their child in the car.
However, in some cases, he says people may roll their window down while they run into the store to grab something. “That isn’t enough,” he says. Peake shares how even on a cool day, a parked car can heat up quickly. “Inside that vehicle with the windows up, that’s the worst-case scenario.”
Peake says, thankfully, it’s rare for the fire department to get calls like this. But, when they do, it serves as a reminder to be cautious on hot days.
