Hot Car Temperature Calculator
Estimate how quickly a vehicle can reach dangerous temperatures when parked in the sun.
Warning: Never leave children, pets, or vulnerable individuals in a parked car, even for a short time. This calculator is for educational purposes only. In an emergency, call 911 immediately.
Estimated Vehicle Temperature Rise
Starting Temperature:
Sun Exposure:
Estimated Interior Temperature:
| Time | Temperature (°F) | Risk Level |
|---|
Safety Warning:
Hot Car Facts & Safety Information
On average, 38 children under the age of 15 die each year from heatstroke after being left in a vehicle. Even on mild days, the temperature inside a parked car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.
How Quickly Cars Heat Up
- A car can heat up 20 degrees Fahrenheit in just 10 minutes.
- After an hour, the temperature inside a vehicle can be more than 40 degrees higher than the outside temperature.
- Even on a 70°F day, the interior of a car can reach 115°F.
- Cracking windows makes little difference in slowing the temperature rise.
Health Risks
Temperature thresholds and associated health risks:
- Below 100°F: Generally safe for brief periods, but still not recommended for children, pets, or vulnerable individuals.
- 100-104°F: Uncomfortable and can cause heat exhaustion with prolonged exposure.
- 105-124°F: Dangerous - risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke increases significantly.
- 125°F and above: Extremely dangerous - heat stroke can occur rapidly, potentially leading to permanent injury or death.
Important Safety Tip: If you see a child or pet alone in a hot car, call 911 immediately. Many states have "Good Samaritan" laws that protect people who break into cars to save children or pets in imminent danger.
Prevention Tips
- Never leave a child or pet alone in a car, even with the windows cracked or for a short time.
- Create reminders by placing something you need (like your phone or purse) in the back seat next to your child.
- Always lock your car and keep keys out of children's reach to prevent them from getting trapped inside.
- If you see a child or pet alone in a car, act quickly – call 911.
- Consider using technology such as car seat alarms or apps that remind you to check the back seat.