What started as an ordinary day nearly turned deadly when Portsmouth Police, EMS, and firefighters rushed to the 2200 block of Scioto Trail for a shocking accident.
A woman was found pinned between a van and a building after a child inside the vehicle knocked it out of gear. Firefighters had to work quickly to free her, and she was rushed to the hospital for treatment.
This frightening incident highlights just how fast things can go wrong when kids are left in or around vehicles.
🚗 Kids + Cars = Hidden Danger
Accidents like this don’t just happen in movies—they happen right here in our neighborhoods. Vehicles can roll even on a slight incline if they’re knocked out of gear, turning a parked car into a deadly weapon.
👶 Safety Tips to Protect Kids (and Yourself)
- 🔑 Always remove the keys — Never leave your car running or keys in the ignition when kids are nearby.
- 🛑 Engage the parking brake — Even if you’re “just running inside,” set it every time.
- 👀 Supervise closely — Never leave children unattended in a vehicle, not even for a moment.
- 🔒 Lock the doors — Prevent curious little hands from climbing inside and shifting gears.
- 📏 Teach safety early — Let kids know cars are not toys and explain the dangers in simple terms.
💡 What This Means for Parents & Caregivers
This accident could have been much worse—and it’s a reminder that cars can be just as dangerous in the driveway as they are on the road. Taking a few extra seconds to double-check locks, brakes, and supervision can prevent a life-changing accident.