Protect your car from heat
By Aldrich Tan/Staff writer

July 22, 2005

TULARE - With Tulare's temperatures continuing in the triple digits, the American Automobile Association of Northern California warns that the risks of overheated cars can be deadly.

"Extreme temperatures can cause cars to break down, which results in injury on the freeway if the car breaks down on it," AAA spokeswoman Cynthia Harris said. "Leaving animals and children locked in cars is the main cause of death in the summer. A car's temperature can rise 10 degrees [every] 20 minutes. You never want to leave a child unattended, even a couple of minutes, because it will pose a danger to your child."

Tulare County residents have a few tricks up their sleeve to protect their cars from overheating.

Phyllis Drotos, 62, of Tulare doesn't turn the air conditioner on in her Ford 1996 minivan.

"It brings all of the hot air in," said Drotos, a purchasing agent

See Car/6A
Section: Local
Page: 1A

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