As summer temperatures rise across Georgia, the DeKalb Initiative for Children and Families (DICF) is encouraging families, caregivers, and the community to “Look Again” before leaving a vehicle.
For the 13th consecutive year, the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) is leading its annual Look Again campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles. The campaign focuses on preventing pediatric vehicular heatstroke and reminding everyone to remain vigilant when transporting children during Georgia’s hottest months.
A Simple Reminder Can Save a Life
A vehicle can become dangerously hot in a matter of minutes, even when temperatures outside may not seem extreme. Children are especially vulnerable to heat because their bodies heat up faster than adults.
The Look Again campaign encourages everyone who transports children to develop simple habits that help prevent tragedies:
- Look before you lock. Always check the back seat before leaving your vehicle.
- Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period of time.
- Keep vehicles locked when they are not in use so children cannot enter on their own.
- Create reminders to help ensure every child has been safely dropped off.
- Speak up if you see a child alone in a vehicle. If a child appears to be in danger, call 911 immediately.
- Stay vigilant. Changes in routines, busy schedules, and distractions can increase the risk of unintentionally leaving a child behind.
Everyone Has a Role in Child Safety
The Look Again campaign is designed to ensure that families, child care providers, and the public understand the risks of pediatric vehicular heatstroke and know how to take action to protect children.
DECAL is sponsoring the 2026 Look Again campaign in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS), the Georgia Department of Public Safety, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
DICF encourages our community partners, families, caregivers, and child-serving organizations to share this important safety message throughout the summer.
Before you walk away, LOOK AGAIN. A few extra seconds could save a child’s life.
#LookAgain2026 #ChildSafety #HotCarSafety #PediatricHeatstroke #GeorgiaFamilies #DICF #SummerSafety