Here’s what experts suggest to help keep kids cool:
– Increase fluids. As a result of their smaller sizes and lesser ability to sweat, kids are more susceptible to dehydration and heat illness than adults.
– Lighten up the wardrobe. Make sure garments are loose-fitting and light-colored to reflect, not absorb, the sun’s energy. A wide-brimmed hat or a sports cap with a brim will help ward off rays. When clothes get sweaty, provide dry ones.
– Avoid the noonday sun. The sun’s rays peak from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so schedule indoor activities during this time.
– Keep it small. Provide small meals and frequent snacks. Avoid high-protein foods, because they may increase body (metabolic) heat.
– Lock your car. A third of children’s deaths heatstroke-related deaths in a vehicle happened when curious toddlers crawled into the family car and couldn’t get out. Make sure you lock your vehicles when you park them at home.
– Know the symptoms — and what to do.
– Heat cramps
Symptoms:
– heavy sweating
– painful muscle spasms in the legs or abdomen
What to do:
– Get your child to a cooler place and a comfortable position.
– Lightly stretch out the affected muscle.
– Provide fluids: a half-glass of cool (not cold) water every 15 minutes.
– Heat exhaustion
Symptoms:
– heavy sweating
– cool, pale and clammy skin
– weakness
– vomiting
– fainting
What to do:
– Get your child to a cooler place and a comfortable position.
– Remove or loosen tight clothing.
– Apply cool, wet cloths, such as towels or sheets, to the body.
– Provide fluids: a half-glass of cool (not cold) water every 15 minutes.
– Call your child’s healthcare provider for advice.
– Heat stroke/sunstroke
Symptoms:
– body temperature of 106°F. or higher
– hot, dry skin
– rapid pulse
– rapid, shallow breathing
– loss of consciousness
What to do:
This is a medical emergency. Call 911 and your child’s physician. While you’re waiting for help:
– Get your child to a cooler place and immediately begin to cool the body.
– Put her in the bathtub or wrap wet sheets around her.
– Don’t give her fluids if she’s vomiting.
Other tips:
– Use a waterspray bottle.
– Use cool packs.