Playing outside is one of the best parts of the summer and many kids will thoroughly enjoy it. However, heatstroke and heat exhaustion can be very dangerous without proper preparations. When letting your child outside to play in the summer sun, keep these things in mind so that they can stay safe and keep having fun.
Some Warning Signs for Heat Illness
Heat exhaustion can come on slowly, but if left unattended it can become heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms when playing in the heat.
- Feeling more thirsty
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Irritability
- Headache
- Excessive sweating
- Weakness and fatigue
- Clammy, cool skin
- Muscle cramping
- Fainting
When these symptoms advance you may also notice:
- Confusion
- Rapid breathing & heart palpitations
- Passing out
- Seizures
- Almost no sweating
- Flushed, hot skin
- Greater weakness and dizziness
- Severe headache
If you believe your child is suffering from a heatstroke, seek emergency medical care right away.
Tips for Preventing Heat Illnesses in Summer
To avoid getting into trouble with the heat, there are several things you can do. Firstly, teach your child to stay hydrated when it’s hot and to replenish their fluids when playing in the heat, even if they’re not feeling thirsty. Dress your child in loose, light-colored clothing to help them stay cool. You should also make sure that they take breaks and enjoy the shade every once in a while to regulate their temperatures. Try to avoid letting them play outside during the hottest times of the day and encourage them to return indoors if they are feeling too hot.
