By Katie Northcott, News Director
On Thursday, May 21, the Office of the Tennessee Secretary of State issued the following press release:
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett, Representative Scott Cepicky, the Tennessee Department of Health, the Tennessee Department of Safety, and AAA today encouraged parents and caregivers to use the State Department’s free “Baby in the Back” car hangtag program as part of ongoing efforts to prevent heat-related illnesses and deaths among children during the summer months.
“This program is one meaningful way we can continue raising awareness about the dangers of heat-related illnesses and deaths among Tennessee’s youngest citizens,” said Secretary Hargett. “I appreciate Rep. Cepicky for his leadership and continued partnership on this important effort, and I am grateful to the Department of Health, the Department of Safety’s Highway Safety Office, and AAA for working together to help prevent these heartbreaking tragedies.”
Representative Cepicky first brought the concept of “Baby in the Back” to Secretary Hargett several years ago. Since its launch, more than 600,000 Tennesseans have requested the free hangtags.
“Baby in the Back was created with the simple goal of protecting children in Tennessee from heartbreaking and preventable tragedy. This program is raising awareness and promoting safer habits for parents across our state by providing a clear visual reminder of the precious life in their vehicles. The overwhelming response from Tennesseans has been encouraging, and I’m grateful to Secretary Hargett for his partnership and leadership in addressing this issue,” said Rep. Cepicky
The hangtags serve as a simple visual reminder for drivers to check their vehicles before locking them, especially during hot weather. They can also alert passersby to check a vehicle if a child appears to be left inside.
“On a sunny day over 80 degrees, a vehicle can heat up to more than 130 or 140 degrees in a short period of time, creating serious medical risks,” said Tennessee Department of Health Deputy Commissioner Tobi Adeyeye Amosun, MD, FAAP. “The ‘Baby in the Back’ hang tag is a simple reminder that can help save children’s lives.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, on average, one child dies from heatstroke about every 10 days in the United States by crawling into an unlocked vehicle or being left in a car, intentionally or unintentionally.
“The Tennessee Highway Patrol is proud to support the ‘Baby in the Back’ program and partner with agencies across Tennessee to help protect children and raise awareness about the dangers of heat-related deaths. ‘Baby in the Back’ serves as a tremendous reminder to parents and caregivers to always check the back seat and help prevent the unthinkable tragedy of a child dying from heat inside a vehicle,” said Major Travis Plotzer.
AAA – The Auto Club Group emphasized the importance of awareness during the busy summer travel season.
“No family should have to endure the loss of a child in a hot car,” said Megan Cooper, Public Affairs and Government Relations Consultant for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “These tragedies often happen in moments of distraction, not intent, which is why we’re proud to partner on efforts that keep this issue in front of parents and caregivers and raise awareness across our communities. We urge every parent and caregiver to check the back seat every time you park, look before you lock, and never leave a child alone. It’s a simple habit that can save a life.”
Tennesseans can request free hangtags online through the Secretary of State’s office by visiting https://sos.tn.gov/requesthangtags.
The Department of Safety will also distribute the hangtags at Driver Services Centers, Tennessee Highway Patrol District Headquarters, and upcoming Tennessee Highway Safety Office events, including Car Seat Checkpoints.
