Ask the Expert

Q: My friend often leaves her baby in the car alone while she runs into a store to buy something. Isn't this dangerous?

A: Yes -- there is no circumstance where it would be appropriate to do this. The dangers of leaving a baby in a car alone are infinite and it only takes one second for disaster to strike. The baby could cry, for instance, and call attention to kidnappers. Or a carjacker could break in, try to escape quickly, and not notice a baby in the back until it is too late. There is also the possibility of the baby getting heat stroke -- especially if the car is left running and the weather is hot -- which can cause instant fatality.

Thankfully, there are states that prohibit -- by law -- leaving a baby alone in a car. Parents or guardians will face criminal charges for doing so as this falls under neglect. If you see a child alone in a car, notify authorities or call 911. And please stress to your friend that nothing good can ever come of leaving her baby in a car -- or anywhere alone.

Nancy McBride is the National Safety Director for the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). She is a frequent lecturer on issues of child safety and exploitation and is often a guest on television and radio programs dealing with child safety.