Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett, Representative Scott Cepicky, the Tennessee Department of Health, the Tennessee Department of Safety and AAA recently encouraged parents and caregivers to use the State Department’s free “Baby in the Back” car hangtag program as part of ongoing efforts to prevent heat-related illnesses and deaths among children during the summer months.
“This program is one meaningful way we can continue raising awareness about the dangers of heat-related illnesses and deaths among Tennessee’s youngest citizens,” said Secretary Hargett. “I appreciate Rep. Cepicky for his leadership and continued partnership on this important effort, and I am grateful to the Department of Health, the Department of Safety’s Highway Safety Office, and AAA for working together to help prevent these heartbreaking tragedies.”
Representative Cepicky first brought the concept of “Baby in the Back” to Secretary Hargett several years ago. Since its launch, more than 600,000 Tennesseans have requested the free hangtags.
The hangtags serve as a simple visual reminder for drivers to check their vehicles before locking them, especially during hot weather. They can also alert passersby to check a vehicle if a child appears to be left inside.
“On a sunny day over 80 degrees, a vehicle can heat up to more than 130 or 140 degrees in a short period of time, creating serious medical risks,” said Tennessee Department of Health Deputy Commissioner Tobi Adeyeye Amosun, MD, FAAP. “The ‘Baby in the Back’ hang tag is a simple reminder that can help save children’s lives.”
Tennesseans can request free hangtags online through the Secretary of State’s office by visiting https://sos.tn.gov/requesthangtags.
