Oklahoma ranks among states for most child deaths in hot cars

A recent study has revealed the U.S. states with the highest rate of child heatstroke deaths in cars.

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OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - A recent study has revealed the U.S. states with the highest rate of child heatstroke deaths in cars.

The study by the Parrish Law Firm looked at data from research company No Heat Stroke regarding child heatstroke deaths in cars from 1998 to July 19, 2024.

According to the study, Oklahoma is ranked #3 among states with the highest rate of child heatstroke deaths based on the data gathered.

Officials say the data focused on the number of hot car deaths in each state compared with the population aged 14 and under. States were then ranked from highest to lowest based on the number of deaths.

States with the highest rate of child heatstroke deaths in cars

1. Louisiana
2. Mississippi
3. Oklahoma
4. Arkansas
5. Alabama
6. Arizona
7. Florida
8. New Mexico
9. Kentucky
10. South Dakota

According to the Parrish Law Firm, Alaska, Vermont and New Hampshire are the only states with no recorded child heatstroke deaths in cars between 1998 and July 2024.

“The southern states with typically hotter temperatures, especially during the summer, dominated the study, claiming seven of the 10 spots in the top ranking," said Jim Parrish, Founder and Attorney at the Parrish Law Firm.

“As the temperatures heat up over the summer, parents and guardians are advised to exercise extreme caution to protect their children from heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Children must not be left alone in a vehicle under any circumstances, even if the windows are left open, as the internal temperature can rise significantly in just 10 minutes.”

The full list of states is below: