New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
Fairhaven police addressed a common question; what to do if you see a child or animal in a hot car:
“A question was asked about what to do if you see a child or animal in a hot car. If it seems the child or animal is in distress we want you to call 911. If it is an emergency and there truly seems to be no option, do what you have to in order to give the child or animal relief from the heat. Break a window that is away from them only if it is urgent to the point that 2-3 minutes may make the difference of saving their life. Keep in mind the car may be running with air conditioning so check the engine closely.
You may not be charged by the police criminally but the person who owns the property could choose to file a criminal or civil charge against you in court. Sadly, that’s the world we live in. Will they win in court? Maybe. But you may save the life of a child or animal and that is priceless. Make a call to police first and get direction from the 911 operator and find out what the estimated response time will be.”
Here’s what the law says: https://www.newbedfordguide.com/montigny-anti-cruelty-bill-passes-legislature/2016/08/12
