Keeping your Kids Safe in the Heat

With the rising temperature we have had this summer, you should be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion. Since children are still developing, their bodies aren't able to adapt to temperature changes the way adults do. Listed below are a few signs of heat distress and heat exhaustion. This is not a comprehensive list. If you suspect your child is having difficulty with the heat, call your doctor immediately.

These are signs that your child should take a break, cool their body down, hydrate and get out of the heat:

• Sweating heavily
• Has a bright red face
• Extremely thirsty
• Feels hot to your touch
• Breathing hard
• Heavy sweating

Pay special attention during super-humid days (when sweat doesn't cool the body down the way it does in drier weather) or during a heat wave.

These are more serious signs that could lead to heat exhaustion:
• Has extreme fatigue that forces them to sit down
• Feels weak
• Feel dizzy
• Fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• A bad headache

If you notice your child is showing any of these symptoms, get them out of the hot weather right away and seek the appropriate medical care.