Lidzbark Warmiński: Driver Fined After Leaving Dog in Hot Car

A 62-year-old man was fined by police in Lidzbark Warmiński after leaving his dog locked in a parked car during a heatwave, claiming he would only be gone for five minutes.

Negligence amid extreme heat

Police were notified that a dog had been left inside a closed vehicle in a store parking lot. Upon arriving at the scene, officers quickly identified the owner, who was shopping inside the store.

The 62-year-old man justified his actions by stating he only left the animal for five minutes. Despite the dog showing no immediate signs of overheating or requiring veterinary care, police issued the man a fine. Authorities reiterated that leaving an animal in a closed car, even briefly, poses a life-threatening risk.

National heatwave warnings

The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) and the Government Security Centre (RCB) have issued country-wide heat alerts. Temperatures in some regions are expected to reach up to 42 degrees Celsius over the weekend.

Second-degree warnings are in effect for parts of the Warmian-Masurian, West Pomeranian, Pomeranian, and Podlaskie voivodeships, with daytime temperatures ranging between 30 and 37 degrees Celsius. Third-degree warnings cover the majority of the remaining country, including the Lubusz, Greater Poland, and Mazovian voivodeships, where mercury levels could hit 42 degrees Celsius.

Public safety guidance

Officials urge citizens to report similar incidents by dialing 112. The Government Security Centre advises the public to avoid physical exertion, stay hydrated, and protect themselves from direct sun exposure while the warnings remain active until Monday at 8:00 PM.