Look Before You Lock - Campaign Emphasizing Checking The Back Seat Of Vehicles

The "Look Before You Lock" campaign is a vital initiative for parents and families to ensure the safety of children during transportation. This campaign addresses the serious risk of leaving children in hot cars, which can lead to tragic consequences due to the rapid rise in temperature inside parked vehicles. This article provides information on Look Before You Lock Routine For Parents and Families, Resources and Materials, and more. 

Look Before You Lock Routine For Parents and Families

Encourage families to create a look before you lock routine. Building simple steps into their daily routine can help them to avoid unintentionally leaving a child in a vehicle. 

• 1. Routine Checks:

     • Make it a habit to always check the back seat before locking the car. This simple routine can prevent tragic accidents.

  2. Visual Reminders:

     • Place an essential item, such as your bag or phone, in the back seat next to your child. This will prompt you to look in the back seat before leaving the car.

     • Use visual aids, like stickers or tags, on your car’s dashboard or rearview mirror as a reminder.

  3. Use Technology:

     • Utilize apps or car seat alarms that alert you to check the back seat when you turn off the engine.

     • Consider using GPS tracking devices that send notifications if your child is left in the car.

  4. Partner Check-Ins:

     • Establish a system where you and your partner or another caregiver check in with each other after dropping off your child. This helps ensure that the child has arrived safely at their destination.

  5. Educate Older Children:

     • Teach older children to remind you to check the back seat before leaving the car. Empowering them to take part in the safety routine can be very effective.

  6. Stay Focused:

     • Avoid distractions like phone calls or texting while driving. Distractions can lead to forgetfulness, so maintaining focus is crucial.

  7. Use a checklist:

     • Create a checklist that you go through every time you travel with your child. Include steps like checking the back seat and ensuring the car is locked after everyone exits.

Discuss your Look Before You Lock routine with every person who drives with a child. This includes partners, grandparents, babysitters, and friends.

Resources and Materials To Promote The Importance Of Look Before You Lock Message

• Communication pack (PDF, 859KB)
• Postcard for parents—English (PDF, 496KB)
• Posters (PDF, 1.5MB)
• Look Before You Lock for parents and families
• Poster series (PDF 246.8 KB)

Further Reading 

Educator Found Not Guilty Over Manslaughter Of Boy Left On A Bus 
68 Children Have Been Left On A Bus Across Australia