Nevada summers are known for their high temperatures, dry air, and scorching sunshine. While even one of those is enough to pose health dangers, together, they represent significant risks — especially for kids.
Whether your child is participating in a summer outing or spending time playing in the backyard, heat stroke, serious sunburn, and dehydration are ever-present dangers for their health and wellness. Here, our team at Nevada Pediatric Specialists offers some simple, practical, yet important tips to help you keep your kids safe from heat-related illnesses.
Kids don’t always recognize when they’re dehydrated, and even if they feel thirsty, they may put off getting a drink to avoid interrupting their fun. With Nevada’s exceptionally dry air, dehydration can happen any time of the year, but it’s especially common during the hot months of summer.
Make it easy for your child to get the fluid they need by ensuring that they always have a water bottle handy and keeping it full. Offer water frequently, even if your child doesn’t ask for it. If your child balks at plain water, try adding chunks of colorful fruit to improve the flavor.
For hydrating snacks, choose melon or cucumber or make icy popsicles using real fruit juice. Avoid sports drinks and sugary beverages as well as salty snacks — all of these can make dehydration worse.
The sun is strongest between 10 am and 4 pm, so try to plan outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the evening. If kids are outside during peak hours, make sure they take frequent shade breaks and cool off in indoor air conditioning or by using a hose or sprinkler.
When heading outdoors, make sure everyone is dressed for sunshine and high temperatures. Opt for lightweight, light-colored clothing featuring breathable fabrics like cotton, or look for moisture-wicking fabrics. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection for more complete coverage.
Nevada’s sun is intense, and even brief periods of exposure can lead to painful sunburn. Protect your child’s skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen featuring an SPF of 30 or more, and apply it generously about 15-30 minutes before heading outside.
Not sure how much to apply? Use about a shot glass worth of sunscreen to cover your child’s exposed skin. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if your child is sweating or swimming.
Even on a mildly warm day, the temperature inside a parked car can become deadly in minutes. Never leave a child or pet alone in a vehicle, even with the windows cracked. It’s not only unsafe, but it’s also illegal in Nevada. Always keep car doors locked to prevent young kids from climbing in.
Water play is one of the most effective ways to beat the heat. Kiddie pools, splash pads, sprinklers, or even a garden hose are a great way to stay entertained and cool at the same time. Just remember: Never leave children unattended near a body of water, no matter how shallow.
Watch for signs of overheating: dizziness, flushed skin, excessive sweating, extreme fatigue, or moodiness. If you notice these issues, take steps immediately to lower your child’s body temperature with a cool shower or bath and cold drinks.
Playing outdoors is one of the joys of summer, and with a little extra effort, you can make sure your child stays safe.
For all of your child’s health needs, you can count on the team at Nevada Pediatric Specialists in Henderson and Las Vegas, Nevada. Book an appointment online or over the phone today.
