Child Rescued from Locked Tesla Model Y Raises Concerns
ICARO Media Group
In a heart-stopping incident in Scottsdale, Arizona, a 20-month-old child had to be rescued from a Tesla Model Y after being trapped inside due to a dead 12-volt battery. With temperatures soaring above 100 degrees this week, swift action was taken to ensure the child's safety.
According to a report from Arizona's Family, the child was safely removed from the vehicle by firefighters who had to use an ax to smash through a window. The car's owner, Renee Sanchez, had closed the door after loading her granddaughter into the car, but she found herself unable to open it again. Despite attempts to unlock the car using her phone and car key, Sanchez was left with no option but to call emergency services.
This incident sparks concerns about the lack of a simple mechanism to open the car from the outside when the 12-volt battery loses power. While it is possible to open the doors from the inside of the vehicle when there is no power, this was not feasible in the case of the young child who was secured in a car seat while Sanchez was outside of the car.
Jump-starting a dead Tesla is a possible solution to gain access, but it can be a complex process. Arizona's Family previously reported on similar instances, including one where a woman was trapped in her Model Y but managed to escape after discovering a latch, and another where a driver was assisted by his sister in freeing himself from the vehicle on a hot day.
This incident serves as a reminder for Tesla owners and the company itself to consider implementing a failsafe mechanism or alternative method to open the car from the outside when the 12-volt battery fails. Given the scorching temperatures experienced, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals, particularly children, in such situations.
As investigations unfold into the specifics of this incident, Tesla owners are encouraged to familiarize themselves with emergency procedures and alternative access methods to prevent any potential dangers arising from power loss.
Authorities and advocacy groups may also want to engage in a dialogue with Tesla to address this concern and explore possible solutions, ensuring the safety of vehicle occupants even in unforeseen circumstances.
Efforts are being made to spread awareness about the proper handling of such incidents and to remind Tesla owners to stay vigilant and prepared for any unforeseen emergencies.