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Safety Tips For Playing In The Summer Sun
August 22, 2023 at 05:09 PM EDT
By WeatherBug Meteorologist, Molly Robinson
With the summer season still upon us, plenty of kids will want to continue to play outside. However, with summer comes hot temperatures.
Children are particularly vulnerable when they are exposed to the heat for long periods of time. They can succumb to dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke more easily compared to adults because their bodies have not developed the efficiency to cool yet.
Here are tips to keep your kids safe when playing outside in hot weather:
Children are particularly vulnerable when they are exposed to the heat for long periods of time. They can succumb to dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke more easily compared to adults because their bodies have not developed the efficiency to cool yet.
Here are tips to keep your kids safe when playing outside in hot weather:
- Stay hydrated- Water is the liquid of choice, however, electrolytes will also need to be replenished so sports drinks will also work.
- Keep a watchful eye- Make sure to supervise your children in your care and watch for any symptoms for heat-related illnesses. If symptoms appear, stop play immediately and move to a cool, shady spot and provide drinking water for your child. If symptoms of heat stroke are there, seek medical attention immediately.
- Rest- Encourage your children to take plenty of breaks, ideally in a shaded area, to cool down. Also, encourage playing in the shade as well.
- Wear the right clothing- Loose-fitting, lightweight and breathable fabric will help keep your children cool while sweating in the sun.
- Be cautious of humidity- Since children are already less efficient at cooling their bodies compared to adults, excessive humidity will make it even more difficult to cool down while sweating. Again, encourage frequent rest breaks and limited duration outside.
Source: UPMC
Image: Image by M W from Pixabay