What Are All Those Purple Ribbons For?

Once Again, Riverside County Department of Public Health is asking for your support in participating in Purple Ribbon Month. This month-long campaign was started after Kaitlyn Russell, 6 months old, lost her life to hyperthermia after being left unattended in her babysitter’s van in the city of Corona. The purple ribbons are tied on trees, antennas, mailboxes and worn on lapels to remind residents to never leave children alone in cars.

Tammy Russell and Laura Peterson, mother and grandmother of Kaitlyn, were instrumental in passing a state law, effective January of 2002, that makes it illegal to leave a child 6 years of age or younger in a motor vehicle without the supervision of someone at least 12 years of age.

However, heat is not the only danger. Car theft, car fire, kidnapping, power window strangulations, and cars rolling into traffic are just some of the other dangers to kids.

What can you do? Tie ribbons, wear ribbons, and educate the community of the dangers of leaving children in cars. Keep watchful eye in parking lots for unattended children. If you see a child unattended call 9-11 immediately - do not hesitate. Local law enforcement puts a priority on these calls. If you see a child experiencing signs of distess (sweating, flushed cheeks, no sign of breathing) get the child out of the car immediately. The medical examiner estimated that Kaitlyn lost her life within only 15 minutes. Even one minute can make a difference.

Ribbons are available at locations throughout the county, including Riverside County Injury Prevention Services, 3900 Sherman Dr, suite D. To request ribbons be sent via mail please call our office at (951) 358-7171.

Visit 4 R Kids Sake website at http://www.4rkidssake.org/ to discover more ways you can support this cause.

Thank you,

Injury Prevention Services Staff