DENVER (KDVR) -- Hot temperatures are on the way to Colorado, and with the increasing heat comes a warning from Denver police on how to protect pets from overheating in unattended vehicles.

Pinpoint Weather Meteorologist Travis Michels said Denver could see its first 90-degree day by the end of the week. Tuesday, meanwhile, is expected to be the warmest day of the year so far with a forecast high of 87 degrees.

Denver police on Tuesday ahead of the scorching week advised drivers to be mindful of having their dogs in unattended vehicles, warning they can easily overheat amid rising temperatures. Police also advised residents about Colorado's Good Samaritan Law, which protects people who save pets from unattended vehicles.

Leaving pets in unattended vehicles

The answer on the best way to prevent your pet from overheating in an unattended vehicle is simple: Don't leave them there.

"This week is going to be a scorcher, Denver and a good time to remind you that your vehicle is not a sitter," police said in a Facebook post. "Temperatures inside a vehicle can reach 120°F in a matter of minutes, even if temperatures are mild and windows are open and in that same amount of time, a dog can suffer life-threatening heatstroke which can cause organ failure and death."

People who leave their pet in an overheated car could be ticketed for animal cruelty, which comes with a fine of up to $999 and/or 300 days in jail.

Rescuing pets from unattended vehicles

Police also gave advice for people who rescue pets from overheating vehicles.

Colorado has a state law that offers legal immunity for someone who breaks into a locked vehicle to rescue a dog, cat, or at-risk person. There are some requirements for that immunity, however, which include:

• You must believe the animal is in imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury.
• The vehicle must be locked.
• You must make a ‘reasonable effort’ to find the vehicle’s owner.
• You must contact the Denver Police Department, Denver Fire or DAP before entering the vehicle.
• You cannot use more force than necessary to free the animal.
• If you break a window, you must remain with the animal, and on scene until police or DAP officers arrive.

Anyone concerned about a pet locked in a hot car can call 720-913-2080 to familiarize themselves with the Good Samaritan law, police said.