PEOPLE have been asked not to leave children alone in cars for any length of time and to never leave little children alone near water.
Casey acting manager community safety Caroline Bell said leaving children in cars was an unacceptable risk and potentially harmful and dangerous for the child.
She said the risk worsened dramatically in warmer weather because the temperature in cars climbs quickly to dangerous levels.
“Leaving children in the car while getting a last minute item at the shops could endanger their lives,” she said.
Ms Bell said summer holidays were traditionally a time of fantastic celebrations and great times but the risks multiplied as children headed to water for play and more people took to the roads and took chances.
“The message is don’t toy with the risks, put safety first and ensure a safe start to the New Year for the whole family.”
“Drowning is the leading cause of preventable death in children under five years of age so never take your eyes off children who are playing in or near water.
“They need constant supervision and supervision means constant visual contact.
“If you leave the pool or water, even for a moment, take the children with you.”