A MAJOR US state has announced a new law related to hot weather that allows anyone to break into a stranger’s car – although there are two exceptions.
During the recent heatwave that’s swept the nation, it’s more crucial than ever for people to care for one another.
A recent spell of hot weather across the country has led to warnings over people and pets being trapped inside cars[/caption]
Being stuck in a hot car can be seriously dangerous for vulnerable people, children and pets[/caption]
A new law coming to Washington will now protect those that break into a vehicle to rescue someone in danger[/caption]
That’s why a new law in Washington has been put into effect that protects individuals from civil liability if they break into a vehicle to rescue someone in danger, according to My North West.
Starting next week, House Bill 1046 will allow people to break car windows if there is no other way for a person or animal left inside to escape.
Being stuck in a hot car can be seriously dangerous, especially for vulnerable people, children and pets.
A report by Emergency Physicians claims a car’s interior can heat up by 20 degrees Fahrenheit within 10 minutes.
Indeed, even on relatively mild days, the temperature can reach dangerous levels quickly which can lead to heatstroke – a life-threatening condition where the body can no longer regulate its temperature, potentially causing organ damage or even death.
However, there are exceptions to the new law, as people must first call 911 before entering a vehicle and are required to remain at the scene until law enforcement or first responders arrive.
The law has been extended beyond children and pets with vulnerable adults who may be impaired due to age, brain injury, developmental or emotional conditions included.
Concern over heat-related vehicle deaths have grown in recent times, with NoHeatStroke citing that more than 1,000 children have died of heatstroke in cars since 1998 across the country – including 15 fatalities so far this year.
Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson signed the bill into law on April 30 with one of the bill’s sponsors, State Rep. Mari Leavitt of Pierce County, saying the new law is there to “protect the most vulnerable in our communities.”
Leavitt added: “Too often, people hesitate to act in emergencies because they fear legal consequences.
“HB 1046 ensures that doing the right thing won’t be punished when someone’s life – or a pet’s – is on the line.”
This comes as a math professor recently revealed an easy method that can instantly cool down a car during the hot summer months.
Dr. Hannah Fry, a Cambridge University math professor and social media star, shared a simple yet effective car-cooling method that has nothing to do with air conditioning.
Taking to Instagram, where Fry (@fryrsquared) has some 1.3 million followers, the fluid dynamics expert said: “That age-old dilemma of choosing between having a non-sweltering car or baffling a passerby because you look like a fool who doesn’t know how to use a door.”
She follows up by offering her own tried and tested method which she swears by and uses herself.
“This is the trick I continue to use,” Fry said.
“It’s what my Ph.D is in: fluid dynamics.”
The method works by strategically using the car’s windows; opening rear windows and then, on the opposite side, rapidly open and close the front door.
For example, if you roll down the window behind the driver’s seat, swing the passenger-side front door open and shut quickly multiple times, this creates airflow – as the movement forces the stale air out of the car and pulls fresh and cooler air in.
Fry added: “When you open and close the door, it sweeps out all the air already in the car.”
Expert advice on prepping your car for summer
Dustin Piggot, the Service Manager at a Subaru Dealership with years of technincal experience, told The U.S. Sun in an exclusive interview which items drivers should have checked before temperatures rise:
- Have a multi-point inspection performed. A paid inspection will prompt a technician to check vital systems like braking, power steering, and front and rear suspension for any leaks or malfunctions. They will also test the condition of the battery and check vital fluid levels and conditions.
- Cooling system. Before things heat up, drivers must have their cooling system inspected for proper coolant levels and condition, have radiator hoses evaluated, and have the radiator checked.
- Have your A/C system checked. If freon is low and needs charging or parts need to be replaced, it’s essential to address the issue before temperatures rise.
- Make sure your tires are appropriate for warmer weather. If you live in a climate that necessitates a dedicated winter tire, swap them with all-season or summer tires if possible to extend the life of the winter tire. Winter tires are softer and will wear out much quicker in warmer weather.
- Look at tread depth. Tires with low tread depth will make it more difficult to stop your car if you need to avoid an accident.
- Give your car some TLC. Before it gets too hot, Piggott says it’s important to give your car a good cleaning to wash away winter grime and dirt and treat your paint to a nice coat of wax to protect it from harsh UV rays and high heat. Many dealerships like his offer detailing and washing services.
Read more here.
