Keeping kids cool and safe during a heat wave

(NC) Did you know that extreme heat and heat-related illnesses are especially dangerous for infants and young children? Fortunately, keeping your kids cool and healthy is easier than you think. Here are some practical and creative tips:

Provide plenty of liquids. They say prevention is the best medicine, and that’s true for heat illness. Ensure your child drinks cool liquids, especially water, before they feel thirsty. You can make it fun by leaving a colourful glass by the sink and reminding your child to drink after every hand washing. If you’re breastfeeding, your milk will provide adequate hydration – just remember to keep yourself hydrated so you can produce enough milk.

Take breaks from the heat. If your home is extremely hot, spend a few hours with your child in a cool place. It could be a tree-shaded area, swimming pool or splash pad. If air-conditioned spots such as shopping malls, grocery stores and public libraries are open in your area, you can spend some time there during quieter hours. Remember to bring a mask or face covering so you can safely enter an indoor space.

Keep your home cool. If you’re using a window air conditioner, cool only one room where you can go for heat relief. If you don’t have an air conditioner or want to reduce your energy costs, use the stovetop or barbecue for cooking instead of your oven and block the sun by opening awnings and closing curtains or blinds during the day.

Plan fresh outfits. Dress your child in loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from a breathable fabric. When outside, keep your child protected from the sun or in the shade by using an umbrella or giving them a wide-brimmed, breathable hat to wear.

Watch your child’s health closely. Stay alert for symptoms of heat illness, including changes in behaviour (sleepiness or temper tantrums), decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting and extreme thirst. Remember that heat stroke is a medical emergency. If your child has a high body temperature and is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Find more information at Canada.ca/health.