If you notice a child alone in a vehicle, what action should you take?

Taking immediate action to help the child is the most appropriate response when you notice a child alone in a vehicle. Children can be at serious risk when left alone in cars, especially in extreme weather conditions. The inside of a vehicle can heat up quickly, leading to heatstroke, or there could be other dangers present, such as the child becoming trapped or accidentally causing the vehicle to move.

By choosing to take immediate action, you ensure the child's safety by either getting them out of the vehicle if it's safe to do so or by calling for help if the situation requires assistance from emergency services. Acting promptly can prevent potential harm to the child while facilitating a swift resolution to the situation.

Waiting to see if the parent returns, calling a friend for advice, or simply telling the child to stay calm do not address the immediate safety concerns and could lead to further risks for the child. It's important to be proactive in such situations, focusing on the well-being of the child above all else.