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 Kansas, leaving a child unattended in a motor vehicle is considered a risky practice that can lead to serious injury or death, particularly due to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. While Kansas law does not have a specific statute that makes it illegal to leave a child unattended in a vehicle, such actions can be prosecuted under child endangerment or child neglect laws. Kansas Statutes Annotated (K.S.A.) 21-5601 defines child endangerment as recklessly causing or permitting a child under the age of 18 to be placed in a situation in which their life, body, or health may be endangered. Additionally, the Kansas Department for Children and Families may investigate incidents of children left unattended in vehicles as potential child neglect. It is important for caregivers to understand that even a short period of time in an unattended vehicle can be dangerous, and they should take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of children.