Councillor Mike Campol. (Contributed photo)

Temperatures were hotter last week when Councillor Mike Campol issued the warning, but he’s serious when he warns people not to leave pets baking in cars.

“I do keep a special tire iron in my car for those that do leave pets in their cars in this type of heat,” Campol told council last week. “I don’t care if your window’s open a crack or not. When you’re in 39-degree temperatures, you can triple that inside the vehicle.”

He also advised people to check the pavement before taking pets on walks.

“If you can’t keep your hands on there for three seconds, there’s no reason (pets) should have their paws on there,” Campol said.

“And I’m assuming you mean no kids in cars as well?” asked Mayor Sue McKortoff.

“Kids too,” Campol clarified.

He also suggested that if people see elderly people walking with groceries and they have a seat available in their car, they should offer them a lift.

On the day Campol made his comments, July 16, the maximum temperature reached 38.3 C in Osoyoos, according to Environment Canada.

Temperatures are slightly lower this week remaining in the low to mid 30s.

RICHARD McGUIRE

Osoyoos Times