Patti Salazar, TTP-Pediatrics, was presented with the Badge of Courage Award from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) on Friday for her actions to protect the life of a child.

Salazar was assisting in a seatbelt survey as part of an ongoing TTUHSC child fatality study at a Lubbock elementary school on June 19 when she spotted an unattended baby in a locked car. Salazar called 911 and authorities arrived to protect the baby.

“TxDOT is pleased to join the entire community in thanking Patti Salazar for taking action and possibly preventing a tragic child death,” said Karen Peoples, TxDOT transportation funding specialist.

The Badge of Courage was developed by Safe Kids Worldwide to recognize people who notice unattended children in vehicles and take appropriate action.