NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 30, 2026) (WOKI) — AAA is reminding Tennessee drivers that extreme summer heat can quickly turn vehicles into deadly environments for children and pets while also increasing the risk of roadside breakdowns.
According to AAA, temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes, even when outside temperatures seem manageable. More than 1,000 children have died in hot cars nationwide since 1998, according to NoHeatStroke.org.
“Every one of these tragedies is devastating, and many happen faster than people expect,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We want drivers to know this is preventable. Taking a second to check the back seat can save a life.”
AAA urges motorists to never leave children unattended in a vehicle, even briefly. Drivers are encouraged to develop habits such as checking the back seat before locking the car, placing personal items in the rear seat as reminders, and keeping vehicles locked with keys out of children’s reach.
The organization says pets face the same dangers. Even with windows cracked open, temperatures inside a vehicle can rapidly become fatal.
AAA is also warning that extreme heat can place additional stress on vehicles. Common heat-related problems include dead batteries, tire blowouts, engine overheating, and the breakdown of essential fluids.
Drivers can reduce their risk by testing older batteries, checking tire pressure and tread depth, inspecting hoses and belts, maintaining proper fluid levels, and parking in shaded areas whenever possible.
AAA says motorists can locate a nearby trusted repair facility by visiting AAA.com/AutoRepair.
