The Wilton Police Department and Gail Lavielle, State Representative have teamed up for an initiative throughout the Town of Wilton: “Heat Kills, If you Love ‘em, Don’t Leave ‘em” The program has a goal to raise awareness amongst residents as well as serve as a reminder of the dangers associated with leaving children and pets in vehicles during the hot summer months.
The signs can be found in several strategic locations throughout the Town of Wilton to include the parking lot areas of Caraluzzi’s, Gateway Shopping Plaza, Starbucks, Stop and Shop, and the Village Market. The signs include the phone number of the Wilton Police Department with the objective being that if you observe a child or pet left in a hot vehicle to call the police.
State Rep. Gail Lavielle states, “Recent incidents in Ridgefield and Westport have demonstrated that not everyone is mindful of how dangerous it is to leave children or dogs in a car during hot, or even warm weather, and this is an excellent way to raise awareness of the risks and to remind people who might forget. Seconds can save a life, and the signs should also make people comfortable about calling the police if they notice a child, a dog, or any animal alone in a hot car. This initiative was introduced very successfully in Fairfield by my colleague Rep. Brenda Kupchick, and I thought it would be just as helpful for our town. I thank Chief Lynch, Captain Cipolla, and the Wilton Police force for being so responsive, as well as all the businesses that are hosting a sign.”
The same applies to pets. According to Wilton Animal Control Officer Chris Muir, “your dog pants to cool themselves, if the air temperature in your vehicle rises, they can overheat rapidly. This can result in death to your pet. All trips into a store last longer than you think. Please let’s keep our pets safe.”
A special thanks is given to the property management groups who support the initiative to include David Piersall and Vidi Piersall of the Merwin Building Management Company, LLC, Kimco Realty, Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc - REIT, and Remo Wilton Association LLC.