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 Pennsylvania, leaving a child unattended in a motor vehicle is considered a serious matter due to the potential risks of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other heat-related illnesses, which can lead to severe health consequences or death. Pennsylvania law specifically addresses this issue under Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, Section 3701.1, which prohibits leaving a child under six years of age unattended in a vehicle if the conditions present a risk to the child's health, safety, or welfare, or if the engine is running or the keys are anywhere inside the vehicle. Violation of this law can result in a summary offense, and repeat offenses can lead to increased penalties. Additionally, such an act can be considered neglectful supervision and may trigger an investigation by Child Protective Services (CPS), which could lead to further legal consequences, including charges of child endangerment or abuse.