(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff John Merchant is urging residents to stay alert during the hot and humid weather, warning of the growing danger of heat-related tragedies involving children and pets left inside vehicles.

Merchant says temperatures inside a parked vehicle can become deadly in less than 10 minutes. He notes children are especially at risk because their bodies heat up faster than adults. He also points out that many child deaths nationwide occur when a child is accidentally forgotten in a vehicle, while others happen when children get into parked cars and become trapped.

The sheriff is reminding parents and caregivers to make checking the back seat a routine habit every time they exit a vehicle. He also urges people to watch for signs of heatstroke, including confusion, irritability, nausea, headaches, dizziness, and hot skin.

Merchant is asking the public to stay vigilant in parking lots, garages, and other areas where vehicles are parked. Anyone who sees a child or pet in distress inside a vehicle should contact law enforcement immediately.

He also encourages residents to check on elderly neighbors and those with medical conditions, and to ensure outdoor pets have shade and plenty of water during the summer heat.