Keeping Your Kids Safe from the Summer Heat

Parents in Arizona are all too familiar with how high the temperatures get during the summer and how dangerous they can be, especially for children. It is important to pay attention to heat and sun protection, to keep your children safe during the hot summer. Here are a few ways you can let your kids enjoy their time outdoors this summer while keeping them safe from the danger of Arizona’s summer heat.

Choose the right clothing

When playing outdoors make sure your children are wearing the appropriate clothes. They should wear loose fitting clothing with light colors to help reflect the rays of the sun. This will help them to stay cool. Fabrics like cotton are best because they are breathable and allow for air to circulate over the skin keeping your child cooler. Hats and sunglasses should be used to shield the face and protect the eyes from the blazing summer rays.

Keep your children hydrated

Staying hydrated is the most critical aspect to keeping your children safe during the summer. Encourage your kids to drink plenty of water, even when they aren’t thirsty. When they go out to play make sure they have access to water and remind them to drink as often as possible, especially when running around. Avoid sugary beverages or anything with caffeine. These drinks can contribute to dehydration. Most of the sports drinks available are not a great option for children because they contain sugar and food dyes. Instead of sports drinks, consider adding electrolytes to your child’s water. Electrolytes are important minerals the body needs daily, especially if you are sweating heavily. There are a variety of flavor options available to create your own sports drink that will be sure to keep your child hydrated during the summer. You want to make sure the electrolyte mix doesn’t contain sugar, caffeine or artificial colors or flavors. One of the more popular choices is Ultima Electrolyte mix. Remember, most electrolyte mixes are designed for adults so you may need to adjust the dosing depending on the size of your child.

You can also consider giving your children hydrating foods throughout the day. Watermelon, cucumber, celery, romaine lettuce, tomato and citrus are a few great options. Not only will these foods keep your children hydrated, but they will also receive a variety of important nutrients to keep their bodies healthy.

Be sun smart

Limit your children’s sun exposure during the peak heat of the day. This is often between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Plan any outdoor play activities for the morning hours or early evening. Speak to your children about taking breaks during outdoor activities if they are going to be out during the middle of the day. Make sure they understand the importance of finding a shady spot to cool down periodically.

The most important thing to remember during the peak heat of the day is sunscreen. Ideally, you want a sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB protection. Sunscreen should become a part of your child’s daily routine and it may need to be applied multiple times a day if your child is going to be outside for extended periods of time or swimming. A higher SPF doesn’t mean it’s a better sunscreen. Visit the Environmental Working Groups Sunscreen Guide for a list of safe and effective sunscreens for children.

Understand the signs of heat-related illness

Familiarize yourself and your children with signs of heat-related illnesses like heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, thirst, excessive sweating, nausea, and weakness. If your child shows any of these signs immediately move them to a cool area and give them water to drink. Loosen their clothing and apply a cool compress to the chest or back to help decrease their body temperature. If the symptoms persist or even worsen, get medical attention immediately. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is considered a medical emergency.

As the temperatures continue to climb this time of year, protecting your kids from the dangers of the Arizona heat becomes even more important. Making sure your children are dressed properly, drinking enough fluids, using sunscreen and understanding the signs of heat-related illness, will help keep your kids safe this summer. As with any dangerous health related issues, if you notice any signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke contact medical help immediately.

Author:

Dr. Kiera Smialek is a naturopathic pediatrician with Natural Kid Doc in Scottsdale, Arizona. Dr. Smialek is a specialist in the field of naturopathic pediatrics and is the only practicing board certified naturopathic pediatrician in Arizona.