Massachusetts law: Illegal to confine animals in car during extreme heat conditions

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – It seems we’re not escaping the heat any time soon, and it’s important to make sure both you and your family are safe.

With the hot weather comes a series of dangers, including leaving pets or small children in a vehicle exposed to extreme heat. In weather like this, temperatures inside cars can rise nearly 20 degrees within ten minutes.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, each year, 40 children die from heat stroke in cars, either because they are left in the vehicle or because they become trapped. This raises questions about what should you do if you come across an unattended child or pet in a hot car.

West Springfield Fire Lieutenant Tony Spear says if you assess the situation and the child or pet appears in immediate danger, it is okay to intervene once calling 911. Massachusetts residents are protected by the Good Samaritan law, which offers legal protection to people who give reasonable assistance to those who are, or whom they believe to be in danger.

“You can let 911 know at that time that you’re planning to make access to the vehicle and then once you make access. If you relieve the animal or child from the vehicle, just stay on the scene and wait for emergency services to get there. Explain the scenario and I’m sure you’re not going to run into any issues with that,” said Lt Spear.

Current feels like temperatures

According to Massachusetts law, it is illegal to confine an animal in a vehicle exposed to extreme heat conditions and this can result in a $150 fine. While there is no specific law against leaving children unattended in a car, the person in their care can still face child endangerment or neglect charges.

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