MOMania

By Carrie

August 14, 2008 8:01 AM | Link to this

I wondered about this. I don’t take my daughter out of the car if I’m just returning a movie to the drop slot or a book to the library drop slot or to push a shopping cart to the holder but any other time she goes with me.

By Clay

August 14, 2008 8:13 AM | Link to this

My children are now 8, 10 & 12; but, 12 years ago I learned the Million Dollar Rule. The Million Dollar Rule states: You never leave your child anywhere you would not leave a million dollars in cash. In today’s world of keyless and keypad entry you could make the case that you’re locking your children up just as you would a million dollars—but why take that chance? My children are older so I will leave them to drop off a DVD in the drop slot at Blockbuster—but that’s about it.

By JJ

August 14, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

I left my daughter in the car once, when I dashed into the store to pay for my gas. She was 9 at the time.

By Sara

August 14, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this

I do this frequently with my two girls (ages 6,7). If I’m running into the post office or gas station, quick trips where it’s easier to not bring them in (“Mommy I want this!”). Most times, they don’t want to come in either. However, I’m always conscious of weather conditions and I always lock the doors.

By Ebaby

August 14, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

WOW- great topic. I remember being left in the car while my mother would run into to pick up pre-ordered prescriptions at the pharmacy but she would also leave me with my 3 other siblings who were much older with me (actually in compliance with the CA law). My child is under 2 years old and I can only think that if I need to turn the car off to run my errand- I need to take my child with me. Thank goodness for the comforts of drive-through services at the dry cleaners, the bank, and even some pharmacies.

By mystery poster

August 14, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

My children are older, 18 and 22, but when they were young I NEVER left them in the car alone. In those days, there were no pay-at-the-pump gas stations, so I had to bring them inside to pay for gas.

It’s just not safe or responsible to leave young children in the car alone. I like the Million Dollar rule, good rule of thumb.

By Jeff

August 14, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

It really depends on the length of time you plan to be away from the car and the weather, as well as the clothes your kid has on and supplies available in the car.

For example: I would not leave a kid in a car more than a couple minutes in the summer here in South GA. (Basically long enough to put a book in the library’s outside dropoff and not much more. I wouldn’t even run a quick errand into the convenience store in those conditions.)

HOWEVER, in the winter with the kids having on decently warm clothes and a blanket or two in the car for if they get really cold, I might extend the amount of time I could be away from them - assuming acceptable monitoring conditions exist. For example, in this situation I would be more willing to run that errand into the convenience store, but again, probably not much longer than that. (Call it 5 min or so, tops, even in these ideal conditions.)

The other big factor for me - and this is in any situation, even if they are in the store with me - is proximity and reaction times. No matter what, I need to be close enough that if something begins to go down that is outside of their ability to handle, I can respond quickly enough to prevent permanent damage. Obviously this means that as they grow up and can handle more things on their own, their ‘free range radius’ expands more and more.

By Lisa Love

August 14, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

Sara- what you are doing is just terrible!! At anytime your car is vulnerable to theft and a locked door has never stopped a desperate theif. If you leave your kids in the car then you are taking a huge risk. I routinely have to go to the post office and I have boxes to mail which is quite a cumbersome task, but I never ever leave my kids in the car. It is never inconvenient for me to protect them. And so what if they don’t want to come in. Who is the boss, you or them? What you are doing is just plain wreckless and negligent. I swear to god some people are not fit to be parents! Weather is not the only culprit to children alone in a car. You are leaving them totally vulnerable to criminals. Way to go!

By HP

August 14, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

Wow…this IS a good question. I think as parents we have all done it, but there have been several high profile incidents here in Atlanta with people leaving their kids in the car for “just a moment” and then some idiot running off with the car with the kid inside. The two incidents I remember, both kids were okay in the end, but the psychological trauma of all involved probably wasn’t worth it. That being said…sometimes I load the kids up in the car in the garage and run back to get bags and my purse. One time I desperately needed cash, and I ran to the ATM in front of my Publix to get cash while my baby boy was in his seat. Also, two weeks ago, my son had his snack in the car while I ran into the daycare to get my baby girl. He is four. I would say for quick things like dropping off a library book or something that is fine, but if you are going into a store to pick up milk or picking up dinner from a restaurant, it won’t kill you to turn off the car and take them with you. I would probably vote that leaving kids in a car unattended for more than a few seconds is a really bad idea. Not just for idiots running off with your kid or your car, but what if the kid is fooling around and sets off the parking break?

By Smart Ace

August 14, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

If you are going to be gone longer than say 10 minutes I say take the kids with you. Otherwise as long as you leave the car running, with the parking brake on, and the air or heat on depending on the weather you are good to go. Locking the doors is advisable precaution also.

Use common sense here guys seriously.

By RickyBobby

August 14, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

My parents left me in my car one time when I was about 3 (this was in the early 70s when we still rode in the front seat without seatbelts). Even though I was very still and well behaved, I somehow managed to shift our 1969 Chevy Impala into neutral. This wouldn’t have been so bad, except the parking lot had a slight downhill grade. The car ended up doing about 2/3 of a donut before coming to rest. Fortunately, it didn’t hit anything or anyone. The strange thing is, my parents never left me in the car alone again. I don’t know why.

By Smart Ace

August 14, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

And for those other smart aces out there who are going to say, “how can I lock the doors to my car if the car is running?”

Here is your solution, every car comes with a valet key, simply store your valet key in the center console in your car and use it to lock the car doors. This allows you to leave the car running and lock the doors……WOW and now you know, and knowing is half the battle.

By Dumb Ace

August 14, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

Wow, Smart Ace…good strategy there. Perhaps taping a sign to the window advising any and all to just break the window for a free car and whatever kids are inside. Bravo, sir or madam. Bravo!

By CATHY

August 14, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this

IN 1974 I LEFT MY 4 YR OLD SON IN THE PINTO WHILE I WENT IN THE 7/11. I COULD SEE HIM I THOUGHT . WHEN I CAME OUT HE HAD KNOCKED THE CAR OUT OF GEAR AND WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. HE WOULDN’T LET ANYONE IN THE CAR CAUSE THAT IS WHAT HE HAD BEEN TOLD TO DO. I DIDNT DO THAT AGAIN.

By Becky

August 14, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

The only time that I have ever left my 2 grandchildren (6) in the car, is in the driveway..Even then , I kock the car & it’s only to run in, crab a purse, toy or some small item..I would never leave them somewhere in a parking lot.. If I can’t be responsible enough to take care of them, why would I take them anywhere with me? The boy wnats to go into the big boys bathroom by himself & the only way that I’ll let him do that, is I’ll open the door & make sure it’s empty, then I will stand by the door the entire time to know who goes in..Yes, I will also open the door & yell to him to make sure that he’s ok..

By Smart Ace

August 14, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

Hey Dumb Ace….you are such a genious….thank you so much for being a jack ace and putting me in my place………

The car doesn’t have to be on for someone to break the window and steal it. Just FYI.

We can play the “What If” game all day long but I was simply pointing out a solution use it or don’t use it I don’t care. But being an A$$ is not going to win you any friends….

By deidre_NC

August 14, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

there are way too many dangers for a child to be left alone in a car…weather-mean people-kids playing around—never do it!!! 10 minutes is way too long. it takes a second for a carjacker to get inn your car and take off. and it really doesnt matter too very much how old they are. i read in the news just this week of a TEENAGE boy left asleep in his parents fancy new car and he woke up and could not unlock the doors from inside due to some major security the car had. he died of suffocation…and he was trying with all his might to kick or knock the glass out…a teenager!!!!! my daughter used to leave her durango running for either heat or ac depending on the weather…lock the doors and take the keys—-her daughter was 8 or 9ish—-her son was 2ish—-i was appalled..i admit when i was a 1st time mom..i would leave my son in the car when i ran in a conveniance store—-but once i just thought about it and all that could happen i stopped. you just cant take chances like that with your kids…

By Sara

August 14, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

Lisa I can’t spend my entire life being paranoid about something happening to my kids. The same scenario you describe could in theory happen with me inside the car as well. They could get kidnapped on a field trip or hurt in a bus accident. It doesn’t let any parent “off the hook” for keeping kids safe, but kids at some point in their lives how to learn to keep themselves safe as well - it’s a necessary life skills (why do you think schools teach kindergartners about “Just Say No” and Stop, Drop, and Roll?). Being “on their own” for 2 minutes or less now is the stepping stone to me trusting them to be really on their own for an hour or two at the mall with friends at 14 or 15.

I’d be more concerned if I were you with not passing your judgmental attitude on to your kids. I prefer teaching mine to get the whole story before jumping to conclusions about someone’s character.

By Numbers Guy

August 14, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

Uh, no. Not until he hits 9 or so. Just too damn much potential for disaster.

By Al

August 14, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

While I agree with using common sense and I rarely leave my kids in the car (definitely never while on), but what about if I have one thing to get and there’s a parking spot right in front of the store and the weather is fine (not cold or hot)? I have been tempted to leave my responsible 5 year old reading in the car, while I run in a store to buy one thing. On the other hand, I would never leave my antsy 3 year old in the car ever until she proves that she will act responsibly. Any thoughts on this and similar situations?

By Stacey

August 14, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

I have left my son in the car a couple of times while I ran in to pay for gas because it was really cold outside. I turned the car off, locked the doors and was in and out of the store in less than two minutes. Now I just pay at the pump so I don’t have to go in at all. Also, as others have said, I will leave him while I drop books or movies in the drop box.

I grew up in the 70’s and my mother often left us in the car while she grocery shopped (not just pick up eggs). In the summer, she left all of the windows down and in the winter she rolled all of the windows up. Actually, the only time we even rode to the grocery store with her is if there was an errand involving us that she had to do while she was out. Otherwise, we stayed home…outside playing! Yes, I realize the 70’s were a different time and place than we live now.

By Heeled-out-MOM

August 14, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

What? If my child is 9+ yes i have and will leave them alone in the care for a few minutes. I’m sure most parents have done this at the appropriate age. I have left my 9 year old in the car several times. When he was 8, i did it only at gas stations (to go inside to pay) and when i would run in a business to pay a quick bill (ex: cell phone). I always park where i can see my child in the car, and i’m positive it will be it’s a quick run sometimes less then 5 minutes. I have did it at a store visit as well.

Before you judge, read the state law of what age is appropriate (state law) to leave a child alone in car AND at home alone for less than 4 hours.

Every child according to maturity level can learn and most are fine. If your child is inmature and can’t handle the 5-10minute run in the store then PLEASE don’t leave them in the car alone.

HP - Like you said the child abduct incidents are definitley going through any parents thoughts when we decide to leave them in the car.

Discretion is seriously advised.

By Smart Ace

August 14, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Guys there is no difference between the dangers that existed in the past and the dangers we deal with today.

You just hear about them more often now due to ease of communication, plus the oversensationalization spin the media puts on everything…that is all.

By DebraL

August 14, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

Once I placed my baby in a car seat(a rental car I was unfamiliar with), put down the diaper bag that had the keys and my phone, closed the door-the car had automatic locks and I immediately panicked. I was lucky the fire department came within 5 minutes and broke the windshield so I could get my child out quixkly and safely. In Georgia the heat index in a car is dangerous within just a few minutes. My blaby was fine and happy to see fire trucks up close personal. I keep my keys in my hand at all times now-even if there is a keyless option.

By lakerat

August 14, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

Neither children nor pets should ever be left alone in a parked car unless said child is bigger and stronger than most would carjackers or the pet is a doberman, pit bull, etc!

By Heeled-out-MOM

August 14, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

Ace and Sara…like i said maturity leave and discrection should be put into account.

To each his/her own, right?

By Smarter Now

August 14, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

The only time I have ever left my children (5, 8, 15)in the car is to drop off the DVD at the outside drop. Even then, I always roll down a window and take the keys with me. I never leave the younger kids in the car with it running, as I am sure my youngest would knock it out of gear. Now that my oldest is a teen, I do leave him in the car alone.

My mother also used to leave us all the time back in the ‘70’s. But now things are different, we wear seatbelts, we are aware of carjackers and aware of how dangerous it can be for children to be left in the car alone. I like the million dollar rule!

By Sugar

August 14, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Where do you people live that you are terrified of a car jacking? That doesn’t happen where I live. I hear about that happening in the seedy parts of town, late at night.

By Bad Parent

August 14, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

I drink and smoke crack and then drive around town with my kids and my pets secured in the trunk.

By new mom

August 14, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

I think the big issue here is not safety, not teaching your child to be ‘responsible’. Is it possible for a very incredibly responsible child to fend off an attacker in their parent’s car, or keep someone from breaking into the car to steal it? I don’t think so… I actually think it’s safer to teach your preteen responsibility by leaving them home alone, for brief periods of time, teaching them to lock the doors, not use the oven, etc. I just think leaving them vulnerable in a car is just asking for trouble!

Yes thank goodness for the invention of the drive thru! Keeping our sleeping baby buckled and asleep while I pick up dry cleaning or go to he bank is wonderful.

A funny story—A couple of days after we brought our baby home from the hospital, we took her for her first dr. appt. On the way home, we stopped in at a grocery store so we could pick up some much needed staples—my husband sat in the back seat with baby while I ran in. When I was a the checkout, the cashier asked if I found everything I needed…I said well, not everything, but I’m in a hurry, our baby is in the car. I quickly realized from the look on her face that she thought I meant ALONE in the car! Suddenly several people were staring at me like I was some evil woman… I said my husband is with her, I swear!! I thought they were about to call DFACS on me… That’s what happens when you try to carry on conversations with no sleep. ;)

By Julie

August 14, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

This is one I go back and forth on! 99.9% of the time I NEVER leave my child in the car, but he’s a big 2 year old and there have been two occasions when I didn’t want to get him out of the car seat, deal with getting him in a place and have to buckle him back in -all to literally drop an item in an errand that takes about 30 seconds without a child in tow. However, I can’t get an ad I saw a year or two ago out of my mind -it had a picture of a woman’s purse on the seat of a car and said, “If you wouldn’t leave your purse in the car, why would you leave your child?” I think it makes a good point. We all know the smash and grab folks are out there looking for such opportunities, but I can’t help but think that child molesters and abductors also look for those same opportunities. Weird things can happen -and what you think is going to be a 30 second errand could turn into something longer. When my child is much older, I won’t have an issue running in somewhere while he waits with the doors locked, but for now I feel like I’m asking for trouble if I do that.

By Becky

August 14, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

I think it should just depend on the child & the situation..My 6 year old grandson, could handle more “grown up” situations than his twin sister..She tends to still be a little babyish(??)..

By Soulfinger

August 14, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

I would never leave my son in the car alone under in any situation. Even if I was getting out to drop a letter in a mailbox, he comes with me. I like the million dollar rule also. My son to me is priceless and I wouldn’t take any chances with his life….but that’s just me……

By Shaun

August 14, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

I totally agree with Sara. If you spend your entire life trying to protect your kids from “what if’s”, you will raise a bunch of paranoid, scared, clinging children. In conjuction with the CA law, kids over the age of 6 can entertain themselves while you run in the store for 1 item or into the gas station. I have done it with my children (age 7), it will cut your errand time in half. Teach your children not to speak to strangers and lock the doors. You are not being a bad parent, but actually helping them become responsible for themselves and not having to depend on Mommy for everything. Please in hot weather leave the car running with the air on. However, I don’t understand how the gear shift AND parking brake can be knocked out of park.

By Duluth

August 14, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

How many of you have left your kids in the bath tub unattended? That’s way more dangerous than leaving them in a car for 2 minutes.

By A. Nony Mouse

August 14, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

I left my two youngest (5 and 3) in the car with their 13 year old brother and went into a store for about 10 minutes. Some lady came running in screaming to call 911 that two babies were in the car alone. I just snapped. Those are my kids and apprently my teenage son who is in there too is invisable.

So yes I have done it.

By Heeled-out-MOM

August 14, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

new-mom - You have some valid points. Worst case scenario if an attacker approaches your child while in the car your correct then that was not a good call on the parent. But i’ve notice more carjackings when adults are getting jacked than when there is a kid in the car.

By michelle

August 14, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

i left my daughter in the car to run into publix “for a second” to grab literally only a gallon of milk. she was about 2 years old and had just fallen asleep in her carseat and i’d been trying to get her to nap earlier that day. i didnt’ think it was a big deal at the time (although i rushed in and out faster than it takes me to pee!), but looking back on it, i would not do that again and even now that she’s 3 1/2, i still wouldn’t do it today just because she’s older. she could still get out of her seat now and fiddle with the gear shift or whatever.

my dad left me alone in his van to check on some things inside his office/warehouse when i was 4. that was before carseats. i sat in the drivers seat and pretended to drive (also because back then, it wasn’t uncommon for kids to sit in their driving parents’ laps to “drive like mommy and daddy”), knocking the gear shift out of park and slowly coasted down the small drive of my father’s office, across a small street and resting at a stop sign. thankfully no one was hurt, including myself, but my father learned something that day!

By Lisa Love

August 14, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Sugar & Sara- carjackings and car theft happen everywhere! 99% of the time they don’t make the news so you wouldn’t know about it. As for being paranoid, Sara, it is not paranoid to be realistic about risks and not put your kids at risk if you don’t have to. Obviously someday they will have to go out on their own and be trusted but that is very different from leaving a 6 year old child alone in a car. A very silly risk to take and stand by my statements about you. You people who think crime only happens in “seedy” parts of town are really fooling yourselves. I am amazed that people would never leave their cell phone or ipod in the car in view of theives but they have no problem doing that with their child. Think about it!

By HairyBubba

August 14, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

I leave my wife in the car all the time when I go into the auto parts or hardware store, and, dang it - she’s always still there when I come out.

By Emily

August 14, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

I have an idea for those of you who leave your kids in the car— go to the GA registry for sex offenders and see how many pediphiles live near you. You will be surprised! Then tell me how safe it is to leave you little child unattended. Here’s a lesson for you little Johnny, learn to protect yourself from a child molesting kidnapper while I run in the store for milk. Builds character and saves me time! Two birds with one stone!

By HP

August 14, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Smart Ace: I agree with you. We hear a lot about “stranger danger” and kids being abducted by strangers and never being seen again, etc. But that is so RARE. Hop off CNN, home of the most Ghastly News Ever, and go look at reputable sites that provide real statistics. Most of the time, children are victimized by people they know and people their parents know. Not saying you shouldn’t be careful, but I am more leery of the adults my children come in contact with everyday than strangers. As for car jackings, they happen, but they really don’t want a car with a kid in it - that is a kidnapping charge on top of stealing the car. The cases I read here on the AJC of car thefts with kids in the car, they dropped the kids off somewhere. Still, folks should be careful, just don’t be paranoid.

By Karen

August 14, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

My parents left me alone in a car when I was very small. I managed to do something I shouldn’t have, and the car rolled into another car. I had nightmares about being in a car I couldn’t control well into my teens. I have never left a child younger than 13 alone in a car. Just not worth the risks at all.

By new mom

August 14, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Sugar, it’s not a matter of where we live, that we’re ‘terrified’ of a carjacking. We live in a very safe area (as safe as suburbs go!) but we aren’t naive enough to think that we are immune to any crime out there. Things happen, everywhere, and at any time of day. In fact, I think we (in general) are more at risk if we think nothing bad will ever happen to us. Do you keep your doors to your house locked at night? I bet you do… :)

That being said, I totally agree that we shouldn’t raise our children to be fearful. There is a difference between being safe and reasonable, and being scared and paranoid. And that difference is taught in how we carry ourselves, what we say to our children, and how we say it.

By A. Nony Mouse

August 14, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

Okay I have been around since the earth was cooling and my parents left me in the car and I did not like being alone but, I lived. I can laso remember standing up in the car while my Mom was driving.

By Lisa Love

August 14, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Oh yes, if a carjacker takes my car with my kids in it I am sure he will take good care of them and drop them off someplace safe so I can come pick them up. Great way of thinking.

By Heeled-out-MOM

August 14, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

The law gives no detail of what amounts to neglect or abandonment. The court is to likely to take into account the age and maturity of the child, for how long he or she was left alone and the arrangements to ensure his or her safety.

Basically this means, discretion and maturity level.

This is DFCS/Ga State info about leaving a child alone at home.

• Children under 8 years old should never be left alone, even for short periods of time.

• Children between the ages of 9 and 12, based on level of maturity, can be left home alone for brief periods of time.

• Children 13 and older can generally be left as babysitters, with the exception of children in foster care. It is not recommended, however, that 13 year olds baby sit infants, small children and children that require special attention due to medical conditions.

• Children 15 and older can be left home alone overnight, depending on the level of maturity of the child.

By New to GA

August 14, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

When my children were infants, my best friend left her 2 year old daughter in the car with the windows down parked at the curb, while she went to the ATM a few feet away. The car was parked right next to where she was standing and she could very clearly see her daughter and even talk to her daughter but it was too much of a hassle to undo the car seat just to leave the car for 5 min then have to put her back in (as any mom will tell you). She turned from the ATM just in time to see a delivery truck plow into the car right where her daughter was sitting. Fortunately her daughter survived but she is severely disabled and will require 24 hour care for the rest of her life (she’s now 20).

The bottom line is that as parents we are responsible for our children’s well being and any time that you are in a position where you can’t readily protect your kids you’re putting them in danger. What good does it do go be able to still see your kid if you can’t do anything to protect them from the danger you see coming?? You’ll be able to run after the thief stealing your car shouting ‘oh god my kid is in the car’. Of in the case of my friend, you can hear your kid screaming as she’s pinned in the car under a delivery truck.

You need to be able to immediately react to the dangers around you, not just see them. Don’t just do what’s easy, do what’s right.

By Heeled-out-MOM

August 14, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Emily, of course. If the sex offender was vicously after a child i don’t think leaving them in the car will stop thier sick mind. What are you trying to say? What about the park, school bus, school yard, anywhere?

By CP

August 14, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Yes, I leave my kids in the car alone to drop off a movie or library books in the slot. I don’t really consider that leaving them “alone” though since I’m right near the car (less than 6 ft) for less than a minute. And if I do have to go inside somewhere, if it’s not a run-in, run-out thing, all 4 are coming w/ me. And the baby always comes if I go inside anywhere.

On the rare occassions where I’ve walked away from the kids to pay for gas - usually always prepay - my son is left “in charge.” He’s very responsible & will let me back in the car when I get back (still w/ the less than 1 min. timeframe.) The 2 keys are too much for me to keep up with so we’ll lock the doors & he’ll use the master lock on the passenger door to let me back in. I’m not worried about them accidentally knocking the vehicle in gear. It’s a minivan & all the controls are in the driver’s area only, the emergency brake’s on the floor near the brake pedal.

By Emily

August 14, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Sugar- I just went to the GBI registered sex offender list and I did a few searches. For example I live in a nice in-town neighborhood but being intown I have some not-so-nice neighborhoods nearby. In my ZIP code there are 10 registered sex offenders and 3 of those are child molestors. The rest are rapists or were convicted of statutory rape. My in-laws live in a very well-to-do neighborhoon on Lanier, far from the city. In their ZIP code there are 13 registered sex offenders and 8 of them are child molestors. And these people have cars and can go anywhere to seek out victims. But that just gives you some idea as to what is lurking out there and also tells you not to be fooled by “nice” neighborhoods. I hope.

By deidre_NC

August 14, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

lisa love—-how true about the ipods and cellphones…

By Heeled-out-MOM

August 14, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Lisa, calm down your missing the point. If i am afraid of the carjacker while i’m in the car am i not afraid while my child is alone in the car? OF COURSE! My point was i have heard or seen it more often when there is a car jacking on an adult than on a kid sitting alone in a car.

By Overprotective Parent

August 14, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

OH MY GOD I better not ever let my children leave the house..EVER!!!!..the world is such a dangerous place…I think I’ll keep them home all the time an home school them so that they have absolutely no common sense when it comes to dealing with the REAL world.

Book smarts are SO much more important than common sense…..don’t you know?

By Sugar

August 14, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

newMom Yes, as a matter of fact, my doors are unlocked. Several times I have left the basement door unlocked all night long. My neighbor has never locked her front door in the 16 years she has lived there, and their garage door is ALWAYS open.

I live in a unique subdivision. We actually watch out for each other. I know my neighbors. We have street lights, and the kids actually play outside.

I cannot allow fear to rule my life.

By Dumb Ace

August 14, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Jesus, people, it’s just ridiculous that we’re even discussing this. There really, really, really needs to be a test before you’re allowed to have kids. For everyone declaring common sense should rule the day, it’s the specific lack thereof—demonstrated by today’s parents—as to why we have to have such laws in the first place.

Some 14 states have enacted laws against leaving children (typically under the age of 6) unattended in a car, and 15 states have bills under review.

Georgia’s proposed bills have been quietly swept under the rug, even when watered down to a $15 fine. It’s the redneck pickup drivers, who don’t want to be bothered with silly things like laws about wearing a seatbelt, that have stalled the various bills (e.g., SB 77 HB 1035). Funny that a state that took the time to make illegal riding in a moving house trailer (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-244) and coasting in your car down hill (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-246) can’t quite seem to find the gusto to say that leaving unattended a 3 year old infant in the car should be illegal as well. Nice.

By JC

August 14, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Georgia General Assembly

SB 77 - A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Article 11 of Chapter 6 of Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to miscellaneous provisions relative to the uniform rules of the road, so as to provide that it shall be unlawful to leave a child six years old or younger unattended in a motor vehicle; to provide for penalties; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

SECTION 1. Article 11 of Chapter 6 of Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to miscellaneous provisions relative to the uniform rules of the road, is amended by inserting at the end of thereof a new Code Section 40-6-256 to read as follows: 40-6-256 (a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “Collision,” the act of a motor vehicle coming into contact with an object or a person. (2) “Injury,” physical harm to the body of a person, causes of which may include heat, cold, and suffocation. (3) “Unattended,” not accompanied by or in plain view of a person 14 years of age or older. (b) Any person who leaves a child who is six of age or younger unattended in a motor vehicle shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to a fine not to exceed $200.00 (c) When any person leaves a child who is six years of age or younger unattended in a motor vehicle and such child is injured or causes injury to another person by causing a collision, such person shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to a fine not to exceed $1,000.00 or imprisonment for not more than 12 months, or both. (d) When any person leaves a child who is six years of age or younger unattended in a motor vehicle and such child is fatally injuries or causes fatal injury to another person by causing a collision, such person shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction therof, shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than five years nor more than 20 years All laws and parts of laws in conflict with this ACT are repealed.

By Clay

August 14, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

You have to think about and guard against the worst case scenario because it’s the folks dealing with worst case scenarios that have their stories told on TV each night. I don’t want to be one of those people.

By HairyBubba

August 14, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

Forget the car - what we should be talking about is the idiot who locked his kids in his trailer for 3 years!

By Emily

August 14, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

Heeled-out-mom, all I am saying is that predators are everywhere. Can we be totally 100% safe from them at all times? No. But a lot of these people are opportunists who might find it hard to resist a totally unattended small child in a public place. Why take that risk if you don’t have to? I agree with others that have pointed out things like you would not leave your cell phone or purse in the car to tempt theives. Why would you be any less careful with your child? Also, not leaving my child in the car has not made him paranoid. I just don’t do it. I don’t tell him why I don’t do it, I just don’t do it. He knows about stranger danger and he is a perfectly well-adjusted child but he is the most precious thing in my life and it is no trouble for me to take him into the store with me. If getting your child out of the car is too much for you then you are the laziest person on earth.

By Heeled-out-MOM

August 14, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

new to Ga.

Good point, but again, it’s at the family’s discretion and the older or maturity of the child, most parents are not going to tell the child to get out the car for a run in the gas station for 2 min, or ATM or cleaners.

That was very unfortunate for the toddler and the family in your story.

By Lisa Love

August 14, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

Actually we need to be more specific, carjacking is the act of stealing a car while the driver is in the car or approaching the car. Car theft is the act of stealing an unattending car. So what I am talking about really is not carjacking but someone stealing your car and not realizing that the kids are in the backseat. It happens. If you don’t believe me then do some research. But I guess you all feel that it happens so seldom that your child is worth the risk. Okay. Your child your choice. But I think you are making a very big mistake. And Sugar, famous last words about unlocked doors and a fear-free, crime free neighborhood. Crime is everywhere and you are being foolish to be so open. My next door neighbors used to always leave their basement door unlocked until they were robbed one night while they were home. If you neighborhood is that naive then theives will find you eventually. They do have cars and can go rob whereever. They don’t have to live in your neighborhood. I do not live my life in fear. In fact these things rarely cross my mind, but I do have good habits like locking my doors, being aware of my surroundings and not leaving my babies unattended. It is not being fearful or paranoid, it is just common sense. I also don’t leave cash sitting on my front seat while I go in the store. I don’t have to think about that, I just don’t do it. Not paranoid, just smart.

By Heeled-out-MOM

August 14, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Emily - As i have stated my child is just fine with a 2-3 minute run in the gas station, cleaner or ATM. He the phone purse (i usually grab card or money to pay) all are in the car for the short period of time.

Lol, i’m lazy for doing that? You know me from where?

Really.

By new mom

August 14, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

Headline: “Woman shocked her house was broken into”

Article: Woman’s house was broken into, even though the burgler is quoted as saying “I wouldn’t call it ‘breaking in’, I just opened the door!” Woman is still in a state of shock that this happened to her, in her neighborhood. Apparently the neighbors, who were supposed to be watching out for her, whom she knows, were eating dinner. Her kids were actually playing outside at the time, and were shocked to see the burgler using something called a ‘car’ to enter the protected neighborhood. And the woman, in tears, is quoted as crying out: “Fear doesn’t rule my life….so why didn’t the street lights stop them?”

By Emily

August 14, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Here’s another good search for you. My parents live in a small town in South Georgia. Very old-fashioned, conservative place. Very quiet. Whenever I go there with my son I am always amazed out how peaceful and slow-paced it is compared to the city. My parents have a bad habit of leaving their doors unlocked all the time and I am always telling them no matter how safe they feel they should still lock their doors. Well this town has 64 registered sex offenders. 64!! And over 40 of them are child molesters. Have some brains folks. You don’t have to be paranoid to know there are risks out there and you simply just use common sense and do simple things to protect yourself and your loved ones. Live your life, be happy but don’t think you are immune to crime.

By Most of you people are LAME!!!!

August 14, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

Sensationalism and drama are all that I am reading here today.

Use common sense people….end of story.

By Janine

August 14, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Here’s my take on it: I don’t need it if I can’t take my child with me inside. There are drive-thrus and pay at the pump gas stations—use those. I actually made a worker from inside the gas station come out and get my money for gas because the pay at the pump broke down while I was using it. Let’s keep our children safe and do not leave them in the car. My parent left us in the car back in the 70’s, and even though it probably wasn’t safe then, it’s really not safe now. Too many things can happen, not to mention a child can get pretty heated up in a closed car very, very quickly.

By Emily

August 14, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

Heeled-out-Mom, sorry I got you confused with the woman who said her two-year old was so big that it was harder to remove him from the carseat than it was to just leave him in the car. You go ahead and leave your kid in the car for whatever reason you have. I am sure it is not laziness.

By Flava

August 14, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Most of you people are LAME- your blog name is very ironic. Just sayin’

By Einstein

August 14, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

I did an experiment. I left four Georgia Tech students in the car with the windows up but didn’t lock the doors. All four Tech students died.

By Lisa Love

August 14, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

New Mom- Bravo. That was hilarious and true! Good one!

By Big Juicy

August 14, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

I usually will leave my kids in the car on short errands but only if I can if I can see the car while actually doing the errand. Not a good idea to do this in oppresive heat or cold with the keys still in the car. Heard too many horror stories…

By Wonder

August 14, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Did you ever wonder what would happen if everyone in the world farted at the same time?

By Miguel Luevano, CHP Officer

August 14, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

NEVER leave your child unattended in a vehicle, period.

Not only can children, especially babies, die if left inside a hot car but they can also be kidnapped.

In today’s busy world parents have so many things to do that they often forget their child is still in the car. When you unload your groceries, unload your baby first.

Also, by now you’ve no doubt heard stories of vehicle thefts where a child is still in the vehicle. Even if you take the keys with you it’s still possible for someone to steal your car. Don’t let your child go along on this dangerous ride.

And finally, here are some tips for those who forget their baby or child is in the back seat. Place a toy in the right front seat to remind you that your child is in your vehicle. Give your child a toy that makes noise also to remind you he/she is back there. And place small mirrors inside your vehicle so you never lose sight of your precious cargo.

By Jean

August 14, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

PLEASE do not leave your kids in the car for any length of time- except for dropping off books in the dropbox-even then, kids can push the car into drive. I know, my brother did that and away we went. I was the oldest but I was relegated to the back seat. Often what you think is a short time is longer for us. No one told parents in the old days about kids or pets in hot temperatures or cold.We got out and went looking for our home.OOPS, where were we? Also, parents leave kids in the car when they come INTO the library or the whatever. Your kids AND your pets are living creatures.

By Jean

August 14, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

PLEASE do not leave your kids in the car for any length of time- except for dropping off books in the dropbox-even then, kids can push the car into drive. I know, my brother did that and away we went. I was the oldest but I was relegated to the back seat. Often what you think is a short time is longer for us. No one told parents in the old days about kids or pets in hot temperatures or cold.We got out and went looking for our home.OOPS, where were we? Also, parents leave kids in the car when they come INTO the library or the whatever. Your kids AND your pets are living creatures.

By Linda

August 14, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

my sister does this occasionally. when he’s asleep and she doesn’t want to carry him with the car seat. she’ll be at the laundromat and watch him from inside. I don’t have kids yet but when I do, I hope I’m not too lazy to put them first.

By HB

August 14, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

I think a good rule of thumb is would you leave your kid outside the car unattended for a few minutes in that same place? If you have a toddler who you have to be concerned would run into traffic, then you should be concerned that they can unbuckle and shift into gear. Would you leave your baby in a carrier on the ground next to the car door in a parking lot for 5 minutes? No? Then don’t leave them inside the car alone either! Is your 9 or 10-year-old ok standing next to the car for a couple of minutes at the gas station while your back is turned or ok to run inside and buy a drink while you pump gas? If so, then he/she can probably sit tight (weather permitting) while you pay for gas or drop off books/movies.

By On a different note

August 14, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Do your kids really understand how bad the economy is? Do they think that debit/credit cards are endless supplies of cash? Just how deep into it do you get with them regarding finances? Are they doing without things that they normally wouldn’t? Are you still paying top $$ for designer clothes? Have your movies nights been cut out? Are you facing foreclosure?

These are just a few topics that could be discussed here that have at least a little to do with living life today. If you don’t like a posted topic, start your own and see who chimes in.

By Been There

August 14, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

I’d love to see a discussion on what type of cuts in their local schools parents are willing to see. Do they know what their districts are telling teachers & staff regarding funding. What is optional, what is essential?

By Uncle Jesse

August 14, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Shoot. I let my kids stay in the truck while I go in to the package store. When the weather is nice, like in the summer, I let them ride in the back of the truck. They love the wind blowin in their face. They just love to “surf” in the back. My little girl laughs and laughs when I have to stop quick or take a turn too fast and they go a$$ over teacup, flying all around the backend. Good times.

By Scardy Cat

August 14, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

You should never put your kids in a car period……too many bad things happen in cars. Accidents, car jackings, accidentially putting the car into gear, leaving them while running inside a store, dying of heat, freezing to death, etc……

It’s just too dangerous to have a kid in the car at all. Mine never get into the car. They never really leave home either, with all the child molesters and pedophiles, murderers, gangstas, drugs, etc.

I don’t let them on the school bus either. They might hear a bad word.

They don’t watch tv anymore either. Too much skin on tv. No computers either, they might see porn.

We just don’t leave the house at all, we stay inside with the blinds drawn, and doors locked.

My girls don’t wear makeup and I don’t take them to the beach to be leered at.

My kids are the most precious things in my world, so I don’t dare let them out of my sight. The 30 year just hates me.

God only knows whats out there….It’s just best to keep them inside, where I can see what they are doing 24/7……

By Man from Lavonia

August 14, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

And you wondered why I kept my wife and kids locked in a trailer for 4 years. Too many wierdos out there.

By Jean

August 14, 2008 1:06 PM |