The aforementioned procedure (if properly followed) can and will save lives. Unfortunately, too many children have lost their lives due to being left unattended and alone in a hot day care vehicle, school bus, or vehicle. The plight of Haley Brockington recently made headlines. Haile was left in a day care van for up to 6 hours. While autopsy results are pending, it appears that Haley died as a result of hyperthermia / heart exhaustion and the related complications. A small child simply cannot survive in a parked car in this Florida summer heat with no air conditioning for an extended period of time. See also Haley Brockington's Mother and Family React to Death of Child. See also Investigators to review findings of investigation into tot's death at a Delray Beach day-care center.
While not all child care providers may be subject to this Florida Administrative Code provision, I would recommend that all child care providers including schools, all day care centers, summer camps, church groups, and, yes, even parents, grandparents, and family friends follow this procedure. While a parent or grandparent is unlikely to use a driver's log, it may be helpful to have a checklist in the car to make sure that all children are out of the car. Some use a stuffed animal as a reminder. Others leave a purse or another item in the backseat as a reminder to remove the purse or item and, more importantly, the children from the vehicle upon arrival at the trip destination. While not all automobile accidents or other unexpected tragedies can be avoided, the death or injury of a child mistakenly or negligently left in a vehicle can absolutely be avoided.