As temperatures rise across the nation, experts are pleading with parents not to leave their children unattended in cars.

Up to 1200 children were rescued from locked cars in Queensland last year, with three cases being recorded daily.

Steve Spalding from the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland tells Chris Kenny temperatures in cars can exceed 80 degrees.

“Most motorists don’t appreciate how quickly cars will heat up. It can take 7 minutes to reach 40 degrees inside a car.

“It’s extremely dangerous.”

Mr Spalding says drivers should not let children play in cars or with car keys.

“Make sure you always secure the car. It’s never there to be a play area for the children.”

Click PLAY below for the full interview