Remember -- Look Before You Lock

As you likely are well aware, it was very hot today in South Florida. And sadly, today, a 2 1/2- year-old toddler was left in a van and died.

The little girl was found shortly after 4 p.m. outside the Katie's Kids Learning Center in Delray Beach. Apparently the little girl was picked up this morning but then was never taken out of the van. It's believed she could have been left there for six hours.

What a tragedy. And it happens far too often. According to reports - about 37 times a year.

Just last month a new campaign was unveiled called "Look Before You Lock." The goal is to get parents and those who drive children from forgetting where their kids are.

Some recommendations from officials include leaving a stuffed animal in the front seat so that the driver is reminded that there's a child in the back seat. You could also set an alert on e-mail or put something that you can't leave your car without, such as your phone or purse, in the backseat.

When the safety campaign was unveiled officials looked at the inside temperature of a car that was parked with its windows up and no air conditioning. It was 157.8 degrees.

So let's all remember to "Look Before You Lock." And think of this little girl's family - and the unimaginable pain they must be feeling.