Seven big retailers -- including Walmart, Target, Walgreens, Fiesta, Kroger, H-E-B and Randalls -- are part of this partnership with the Houston Police Department. The intent is to prevent crime, but also to keep children safe in stores and in parking lots.
We are nearing the end of the school year and start of summer, so this program is kicking off at a good time, with law enforcement and community leaders reminding you not to ever leave your children unattended in cars, whether on or off. It's a particularly relevant reminder during Houston's hot summer months.
"Whether the car is locked or not, leaving the car running unattended can lead to disastrous results in a matter of seconds. Like the van says, don't take your chances with your precious cargo," said Asst. Chief Dan Perales with HPD.
Mayor Annise Parker and other community leaders were on hand to check out the "Heat Van," featuring a thermostat inside. And even on a milder day like today, the temperature was rising inside that van.
