AUGUSTA, Ga. ()- First responders are warning people about the consequences for leaving children in hot cars. 

Even in moderate weather, the temperatures inside a car can increase by 40 degrees within a matter of minutes.

With two recent incidents involving kids in hot cars, first responders want parents and caretakers to be aware.

Central EMS has not had to respond to any incidents involving kids in hot cars so far this year, but for veteran paramedic Toni Lee, it’s nothing she hasn’t seen before. 

“We usually get called out, find the kid a hot car. They’re having trouble breathing, not responding well, so we try to get them out as quick as we can and give them some medical attention,” said Lee.

This week, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office released body cam video of an incident that happened last month at a mall outside of Atlanta.

Deputies had to rescue a 1-year-old and a 2-year-old who were trapped in a car for more than 40 minutes.

Temperatures in the car reaching 117 degrees, which first responders say are extremely dangerous for children.

“They don’t regulate heat as well as we do when we’re a little older—not elderly, but more when we’re middle-aged. Their body temperature gets up very quickly, causes their organs to shut down, and they can die very quickly. They can have a lasting heat injury, it doesn’t take long. It’s very quick,” said Col. John Smith, Director of Operations for Gold Cross EMS.

The GBI is also still investigating the death of a 4-year-old in Metter, Georgia, who was found dead in a car a few weeks ago.

First responders say the best thing to do is to be aware of your surroundings at all times.

“We never want to leave anybody in a car while it’s not running in the summer. Always check and make sure everybody is out of the car when you get out, and when you’re not in the car, make sure you keep it locked—that way no one can get in the car without you knowing,” Lee said.

They also say if you have young children with you, you should make a regular habit of checking your backseat before you leave. 

“If you’re aware of your surroundings, you’re checking the backseat, you’re checking around the car—then you’re not going to forget your children, and you may avoid other issues as well,” said Smith.

EMS says they give the same advice to keep an eye out for our elderly folks—who are also more sensitive to heat.

Even if you’re leaving to go somewhere for a few minutes, take your kids with you to not take any chances.

They encourage parents and caretakers to be alert, and know where they are at all times.