Joliet, IL – The Joliet Police Department is reminding residents that children should never be left unattended in vehicles, especially during cold weather when interiors can reach dangerous temperatures within minutes.
According to the department, Illinois law considers it neglect if a child age six or younger is left alone in a vehicle for more than 10 minutes. City ordinances further prohibit anyone 16 or older from leaving a child under 13 unattended in a car without the supervision of someone at least 16.
Police emphasized that even brief absences can pose serious risks. “Vehicle interiors can reach lethal temperatures in minutes — even in cold weather,” the department stated. Officers actively enforce both state law and local ordinances to protect children’s safety.
Violating the city ordinance can result in a minimum $300 fine and may also lead to the arrest of a parent or guardian, depending on circumstances.
The full ordinance can be viewed on Joliet’s municipal code website. Police are encouraging residents to follow the campaign hashtag #ParkLookLock, urging drivers to check vehicles before walking away.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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