Health care providers offer advice on keeping kids safe during heat waves

Local physicians are warning parents and guardians to be cautious as temperatures soar into the 90s over the next few days in Columbus, Ohio. They are advising adults to monitor children closely, paying attention to their behavior, activity level, and water intake to avoid heat-related issues.

Eric Leighton, the functional rehab leader for sports medicine at Nationwide Children’s, emphasizes the importance of taking precautions and consistently looking out for children. He stresses the significance of ensuring kids take water breaks and schedule time away from play or sports to stay hydrated.

While it may be easy to forget to drink water, Leighton points out that children can quickly become dehydrated and susceptible to heat-related illnesses. He emphasizes the need to continuously encourage water intake, especially for younger children. Symptoms of overheating, such as tiredness and flushed skin, should not be ignored.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends dressing infants and children in loose, lightweight clothing and never leaving them in a parked car, even with open windows. Leighton warns that children, like the elderly, can easily succumb to heat-related illnesses and that health conditions like asthma can worsen in high temperatures.

In light of the upcoming heatwave, it is essential for parents and guardians to be vigilant and take proactive measures to protect children from the dangers of extreme heat. By monitoring their behavior, activity levels, and hydration, adults can help ensure their children remain safe and healthy during the hot weather.