Heat Illness

Heat illness happens when the body cannot properly cool itself. Extreme heat makes it more difficult for the body to cool. Children are more at risk of experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Signs of Heat Related Illnesses

• Feeling faint
• Extreme tiredness
• Headaches
• Fever
• Intense thirst
• Not urinating for many hours
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Breathing faster or deeper than normal
• Muscle aches and spasms

First Aid

• Call 911 immediately
• Move the child to a cooler area
• Cool the child with a cool shower/bath
• Give cool water to drink
• Remove unnecessary clothing

Tips for preventing Heat Illness

• Do not leave your children in the car even if you crack the windows
• During extreme heat stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible.
• Dress your children in lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes and a hat
• Limit outdoor activities to the coolest times of the day, like early morning or late evening
• Wear sunscreen as sunburn affects the body’s ability to cool down
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Plan for extra rest time.

If your child has experienced heat illness, please contact your pediatrician.