You should not leave a child unattended in a motor vehicle for any length of time. If children are trapped inside cars—especially in hot weather—they can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke in a matter of minutes, leading to permanent disability or death. Heat stroke, also known as hyperthermia, can cause shock, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and heart attack, as well as brain, liver, and kidney damage. Leaving a child unattended in a car is also a form of neglectful supervision that is investigated by Child Protective Services.

In Iowa, leaving a child unattended in a motor vehicle is considered a serious matter, particularly due to the risks associated with heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. While Iowa does not have a specific statute that makes it illegal to leave a child unattended in a vehicle, such actions can fall under child endangerment laws. According to Iowa Code section 726.6, an individual who knowingly acts in a manner that creates a substantial risk to a child's physical, mental, or emotional health or safety may be guilty of child endangerment. This can include leaving a child in a car, especially under conditions that pose a significant risk, such as extreme weather. Additionally, if a child is harmed or dies as a result of being left in a vehicle, more severe charges could be brought against the responsible party. Child Protective Services in Iowa may also investigate instances of a child being left unattended in a vehicle as potential neglectful supervision.