[photo source: ocregister]

A father parked his car and got in the metro, forgetting his 7 1/2 month old baby daughter in the car, as reported by CNN.

Thank God, several commuters noticed the baby inside the car and alerted the authorities. Firemen opened the car door and took the baby to a nearby hospital as a precaution. She was later reunited with her mother.

He may be charged for leaving a child unattended and could face a fine of up to $500 and 30 days in jail.

I can barely imagine how it must have felt like when the father realized his mistake. If I was in his shoes, I would definitely welcome the punishment meted out. A small price to pay for what could have easily turned into an even bigger nightmare.