Leaving a child in a car

This morning, the news reported that a number of young children have died as a result of being left in a hot car.  Some of these deaths were as a result of parents intentionally leaving their child, but many are a result of parents simply forgetting that their child was in the car.  They were on "auto-pilot" or had slightly deviated from their normal routine like a different person taking baby to daycare.

I thought about my routine when I have one or both of my daughters in the car.  I am still in the process of developing the best mechanism for getting both of my children in and out of the car.  After just over a month, here is what I find helpful.

1.  I put Molly in the car first and take her out last.  This is for the simple reason that Molly is mobile and can "escape."  This way Molly is safe and secure while I get Emma situated.  It is also the reason that Molly sits on the passenger side.  This way, if she does get away from me, she is at least on the side walk side of the car and not on the street side.  Emma cannot go anywhere on her own yet. 

2.  Emma's seat is installed behind the driver's seat.  I have made it a habit to open her door while I get the stroller out of the back.  This way I cannot accidentally lock the girls in the car. 

3.  I leave the diaper bag or Molly's day care bag in the foot well of the front seat.  This way I have to walk all the way around the car and have a much greater chance of seeing one or both of the girls in the back seat. 

4.  I used to let Molly play with my car keys.  After witnessing another child lock herself in the car, I no longer allow her to have the keys when she is in the car. 

5.  I have a mirror in the backseat so that I can see Emma from the rear view mirror.

I have heard other tips such as leaving one of your shoes or your purse in the bag seat so that you have to open the back door.  Whatever works for you so long as it works.