CHP's Purple Ribbons a Reminder about 'Kaitlyn's Law'

Purple ribbons adorning the antennas of California Highway Patrol cars this month are a reminder of the dangers of leaving a child unattended in a car, CHP officials said.

The decorations are designed to draw attention to "Purple Ribbon  Month," which starts today. August was designated by the national 4 R Kids Sake to raise awareness and educate the public about the dangers of leaving a child alone in a car.

The campaign also serves to remember Kaitlyn, the daughter of 4 R  Kids Sake co-founder Tammy Russell who died Aug. 15, 2000. The 6-month-old girl was left alone in a car for about two hours in Riverside County by a babysitter, according to the CHP. Her body temperature had reached 107 degrees when she arrived at the hospital, where she died of hyperthermia, according to the nonprofit.

Because of "Kaitlyn's Law," which was enacted by the state in 2001, anyone who leaves a child 6 years or younger inside a vehicle without  the supervision of someone at least 12 years old can be fined $100.

"It takes very little effort to take a child or loved one with you," CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said in a statement. "It is not worth it to
leave them in the car, even for a few moments."

Anyone who sees a child alone in a car is asked to immediately call 911.

— Bay City News Service