It’s now legal in Washington to break a window if you need to rescue a dog or person from a hot car. There are requirements though.
Washington Governor Ferguson signed House Bill 1046 Wednesday that gives a person immunity from civil liability for damage to a motor vehicle arising from the rescue of vulnerable persons or domestic animals.
It does not include livestock or farm animals.
The term “vulnerable persons” is anyone under 18 or anyone impaired due to a number of disabilities.
Gov. Ferguson commented before signing the bill, “Overheating cars, as we all know, is an important danger to keep in mind as the summer approaches, as it most certainly is, so this legislation can really save lives.”
Some requirements before you break that window, include:
-The vehicle must be locked
-You must have reasonable belief entry is necessary because of imminent danger of suffering harm
-You must call 911 first
-You can use no more force than necessary
-You must remain close with the person or animal until authorities arrive
