30 Qld kids rescued from cars a week

More than 30 children a week are being rescued from Queensland cars, according to the state's peak motoring group.

The RACQ says almost 600 children have been rescued from vehicles so far this year, or about 33 kids a week.

"We average three children rescued from cars every day of the year, and its a trend that's unfortunately not improving," RACQ spokesperson Lauren Ritchie said.

"Too often these accidental lock-ins are due to parents giving the car keys to the children to play with and it only takes a touch of a button for them to be trapped inside."

Ms Ritchie said parents needed to remain vigilant even during the winter chill, and pointed out RACQ tests had revealed internal car temperatures can rise to 40 degrees within seven minutes.

"Being exposed to such high temperatures in a car can kill or lead to severe injury for young children in a relatively short time," she said.

RACQ have already made almost 600 rescues this year, with as many as 33 in one week.