Top tips for a healthy summer
(NC) If you have young kids, chances are they love activities that come with the warm weather like swimming, camping and enjoying the outdoors. Get prepared with these tips to stay safe and healthy when the sizzling heat sets in.
Heat can be dangerous. When there is a heat warning or a heat event, it can be especially dangerous for infants and young children. In the excitement of play, they may not notice that they’re getting too hot. Monitor local weather and pay attention to heat-specific warnings. Never leave children or pets alone in a parked vehicle.
Keep your child hydrated. Practicing good hydration habits is a great way to keep your children cool this summer. Bring a water bottle with you when doing outdoor activities, especially during heat events. Provide extra fruits and vegetables as they have a high water content. Make hydration fun by leaving a colourful glass or one with your child’s favourite cartoon character on it by the sink and remind them to drink after every hand washing.
Get your home ready for cooling. Take steps to make your home cooler now so you’re ready when the temperature rises. Invest in window treatments that can block the sun’s rays during the day. Check that your air conditioner (AC) is working properly. If you don’t have AC, you may want to get a portable fan for your child’s bedroom. Just make sure to place it in a safe spot away from little fingers. Otherwise, find an air-conditioned spot near you that you can use to cool off during extreme heat.
Prepare a summer wardrobe. Did your child have a growth spurt recently? Their clothes from last year may not fit anymore. When shopping, look for loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from a breathable fabric.
Know the signs of heat illness. They can include sleepiness, temper tantrums, dizziness, nausea and headache. If you see any of these signs during extreme heat, immediately move the child to a cool place and give them water.
Learn more ways to prepare for extreme heat at canada.ca/heat.
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