HOW TO CARE FOR CHILDREN IN TIMES OF INTENSE HEAT

High heat can be dangerous for children, since their bodies are not as efficient as adults' at regulating temperature. Young children, in particular, are more likely to suffer the effects of heat, such as dehydration, heat stroke, and heat-related illnesses.

It is important to take special precautions to protect children from intense heat, especially during heat waves. Here are some tips:

Keep children hydrated. Children should drink plenty of water, even if they are not thirsty. Offer water often, especially during physical activities or in hot weather.

Keep children in cool places. Avoid letting children be in the sun during the hottest hours of the day, which are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Keep them in cool places, like at home, in the library, or at a shopping center.
Dress children in light, breathable clothing. Avoid children wearing tight-fitting clothing or clothing made of synthetic materials, which do not allow air to circulate.

Protect them from the sun. Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to all exposed parts of children's bodies, even on cloudy days . Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if children are swimming or sweating.

Do not leave children alone in a vehicle. The temperature in a parked vehicle can quickly rise to dangerous levels, even with the windows open. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, even for a minute. [Image of Children alone in a vehicle]

Here are some additional tips for caring for children during hot weather:

Offer children light, fresh foods. Foods rich in water, such as fruits and vegetables, can help children stay hydrated.
Encourage children to rest. Children may be more tired than usual in hot weather. Encourage them to take frequent breaks and get enough sleep.
Monitor children for signs of dehydration or heat stroke. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, intense thirst, dark urine, and fatigue. Signs of heat stroke include high body temperature (greater than 40°C), redness of the skin, excessive sweating, confusion, and seizures. If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately.

By taking these precautions, you can help protect children from intense heat and keep them safe and healthy.

Specific Tips for Young Children

Young children are especially vulnerable to intense heat, since their bodies are still developing and they cannot regulate their temperature as effectively as adults. Here are some specific tips for caring for young children during hot weather:

Make sure young children are always accompanied by a responsible adult. Young children may not be able to recognize the signs of dehydration or heat stroke and may need help to stay hydrated and cool.
Do not allow young children to play alone in the yard. It is best for young children to play in a shaded area, near an adult.
Controls the temperature of the water in the pool or jacuzzi. The water in the pool or jacuzzi must be at a temperature between 27 and 29 °C.
Do not leave small children alone in the car, even if the car is parked in the shade.

Specific Tips for Older Children

Older children may be more independent than younger children, but it is still important to take precautions to protect them from intense heat. Here are some specific tips for caring for older children during hot weather:

Talk to older children about the dangers of high heat. Help them understand the signs of dehydration and heat stroke and how to stay hydrated and cool.
Provide older children with water and healthy foods regularly.
Encourage them to rest in a cool place during the hottest hours of the day.
Monitor older children for signs of dehydration or heat stroke.