Heat Safety: Preventing Heat-Related Illness in Children

Children are more vulnerable to heat than adults. They heat up faster, may not recognize they're getting too hot, and depend on adults to keep them safe. Heat-related illness can range from mild heat cramps to life-threatening heat stroke. Understanding prevention and recognition saves lives.

Why Children Are Vulnerable AAP

Children's bodies handle heat differently than adults.

Physical differences:

• Higher body surface area to mass ratio (heat up faster)
• Produce more heat during activity
• Sweat less efficiently than adults
• May not drink enough without reminders
• Can't regulate temperature as well

Behavioral factors:

• May not recognize they're overheating
• May not stop playing to rest or drink
• Can't remove clothing or get to shade on their own (babies)
• May resist drinking when engaged in play

Types of Heat-Related Illness CDC

Heat cramps (mildest):

• Painful muscle cramps during exercise
• Usually in legs, arms, or abdomen
• Caused by heavy sweating and salt loss
• Child is usually still alert and responsive

Heat exhaustion (serious):

• Heavy sweating
• Cold, pale, clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness, weakness
• Dizziness or fainting
• Headache

Heat stroke (life-threatening emergency):

• High body temperature (103°F or higher)
• Hot, red, dry OR damp skin
• Fast, strong pulse
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Loss of consciousness
• Not sweating despite heat
• Call 911 immediately

Preventing Heat Illness AAP

Hydration:

• Offer water frequently, before child is thirsty
• Water is best for most situations
• Sports drinks for extended intense activity
• Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine
• Watch urine color (dark = needs more fluids)
• Track how much child is drinking

Activity management:

• Limit intense activity during hottest hours (10 AM - 4 PM)
• Take frequent rest breaks in shade
• Watch for signs of overheating
• Gradually acclimatize to hot weather
• Modify activities in extreme heat

Clothing:

• Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
• Breathable fabrics
• Hats for sun protection
• Remove extra layers if child is hot

Environment:

• Seek air-conditioned spaces during extreme heat
• Use shade when outdoors
• Fans help but don't prevent heat illness in extreme heat
• Check pavement and playground equipment for heat

Recognizing Problems Early

Watch for these warning signs:

• Excessive sweating (or lack of sweating)
• Skin that's flushed, hot, or dry
• Unusual fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Cramping
• Rapid breathing
• Changes in behavior or responsiveness

Responding to Heat Illness

For heat cramps:

• Stop activity and rest in cool place
• Drink water or sports drink
• Don't resume activity until cramps stop
• Get medical help if cramps last over an hour

For heat exhaustion:

• Move to cool place immediately
• Loosen or remove clothing
• Apply cool, wet cloths
• Fan child
• Sip water if conscious and able
• Get medical attention if vomiting, symptoms worsen, or symptoms last over an hour

For heat stroke (CALL 911):

• Call 911 immediately
• Move to coolest place available
• Cool rapidly with whatever is available (cool water, ice packs to armpits, neck, groin)
• Do NOT give fluids if unconscious or confused
• Stay with child until help arrives

Hot Car Deaths: A Preventable Tragedy Kids and Car Safety

Leaving children in cars, even briefly, can be fatal.

Critical facts:

• Car interior heats up rapidly (20°F in 10 minutes)
• Even with windows cracked, temperature rises
• Children overheat 3-5 times faster than adults
• Most deaths occur when child is "forgotten" in car
• Can happen to any caregiver—it's not about being careless

How tragedies happen:

• Change in routine
• Child falls asleep in car seat
• Caregiver on autopilot
• Child gains access to unlocked car
• Child left "just for a minute"

Prevention strategies:

• NEVER leave children alone in vehicles
• Keep cars locked so children can't get in alone
• Look Before You Lock—check back seat every time
• Put something you need (phone, bag, shoe) in back seat
• Ask childcare to call if child doesn't arrive
• Keep car keys away from children

If you see a child in a hot car:

• Call 911 immediately
• If child appears in distress, get them out
• Many states have laws protecting those who break windows to rescue children

Sports and Activity Safety AAP

Hot weather makes sports and activities more dangerous.

Heat safety for sports:

• Gradually acclimate to heat over 10-14 days
• Schedule practice for cooler times
• Mandatory water breaks every 15-20 minutes
• Watch athletes closely for heat illness
• Allow unlimited water access
• Adjust intensity based on heat index

Warning conditions:

• High heat index (combination of heat and humidity)
• Activities should be modified or canceled in extreme heat
• Follow school and league guidelines

Sleep Safety in Heat

Keeping babies comfortable:

• Dress in light layers
• Keep room cool (68-72°F ideal)
• Use fans for air circulation
• Never cover crib with blankets or heavy items
• Check baby's chest or back of neck for temperature

Signs baby is too hot:

• Sweating
• Damp hair
• Flushed cheeks
• Rapid breathing
• Restlessness

Special Populations

Infants:

• Cannot regulate temperature well
• Can't tell you they're hot
• Can't remove clothing or seek shade
• Keep out of direct sun
• Never leave in car

Children with certain conditions:

• Some medications increase heat sensitivity
• Some health conditions affect temperature regulation
• Follow doctor's guidance for heat exposure
• May need additional precautions

The Bottom Line

Heat-related illness is preventable. Keep children hydrated, limit activity during peak heat, watch for warning signs, and never leave children in vehicles. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and respond quickly when symptoms appear. In extreme heat, sometimes staying indoors in air conditioning is the safest choice.

Clara is here to help you keep your children safe in the heat!