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26 AAP Protecting Children From Extreme Heat 2017
26 AAP Protecting Children From Extreme Heat 2017
Parents
Extreme heat can cause children to become sick in several ways.
Make sure to protect your child from the heat as much as possible,
watch for symptoms, and call your pediatrician if you see any
develop.
Find an air-conditioned space. If your home does not have air-conditioning, find a nearby building that does.
Libraries can be a great place for a cool retreat from the heat. If you live in a place where the air-conditioning is
unpredictable, plan in advance for a safe place for you and your family to go during times when the
temperatures are high.
Stay hydrated. Encourage your children to drink water regularly and have it readily available—even before they
ask for it. On hot days, infants receiving breast milk in a bottle can be given additional breast milk in a bottle, but
they should not be given water—especially in the first six months of life. Infants receiving formula can be given
additional formula in a bottle. See Signs of Dehydration in Infants & Children (/English/health-issues/injuries-
emergencies/Pages/dehydration.aspx).
Dress lightly. Dress your children in clothing that is light-colored, lightweight, and limited to one layer of
absorbent material that will maximize the evaporation of sweat. Kids have a lower capacity for sweating than
adults.
Plan for extra rest time. Heat can often make children (and their parents) feel tired.
Cool off. When your child is feeling hot, give them a cool bath or water mist to cool down. Swimming is another
great way to cool off while staying active.
Prevent the effects of sun exposure. See Sun Safety: Information for Parents About Sunburn & Sunscreen
(/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Sun-Safety.aspx).
Ask about policies. Talk to your child's caregiver, camp, coach or child care provider about their policies for
protecting your children throughout the day—especially during outdoor play or exercise.
Heat cramps
Heat stroke
Feeling faint
Headache
Fever
Intense thirst
Nausea
Vomiting
Muscle aches
Muscle spasms
NoHeatStroke.org (http://noheatstroke.org/)
SaferCar.gov/Heatstroke (http://www.safercar.gov/heatstroke)
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