It's Scorching. Here's How to Keep Your Kids Cool and Safe.

Keep Your Little Ones Safe from the Heat

Summer is here, and it's a time for fun in the sun—pools, playgrounds, camping, and beaches. But with the warmth comes the need to be extra careful about protecting your children from the dangers of heat. One of the best ways to stay safe is by following the "slip/slop/slap" rule: slip on a shirt, slop on some SPF 30+, and slap on a hat.

Children are not small adults. Their compact bodies, while great at keeping them warm in the cold, make it harder for them to cool down in the heat. They have less surface area for sweat to evaporate, and their baby fat acts like an insulating layer, trapping heat inside. When they get too hot, they might look flushed, with red cheeks and ears, and breathe faster as their body tries to release the heat. They may also become cranky or unusually quiet, which can be a sign that something is wrong.

Overheating can lead to dehydration, seizures, and even more serious issues. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep your little ones comfortable and safe during the summer months.

Dress for Success

Light, breathable clothing is key when it comes to keeping kids cool. Avoid hats indoors and ensure your home stays at a safe temperature, ideally between 68°F and 72°F. Fans and air conditioning are safe to use, but avoid directing cool air directly onto your child. When you're outdoors, seek shade and take frequent breaks to cool off. If you're unsure if your child is too hot, check their ears rather than their hands and feet, which can be misleading. Also, look for signs of sweating around the neck and under the arms.

Check Your Backseat

A car can become dangerously hot very quickly, even on mild days. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, temperatures can reach deadly levels within minutes. This heartbreaking phenomenon, known as “Forgotten Baby Syndrome,” can happen to anyone, even the most attentive parents. To prevent this:

• Always check the backseat when you park.
• Place your phone, purse, or left shoe in the backseat as a reminder.
• Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even for a minute.

Watch for Heat Hazards on the Playground

Playground equipment like metal slides and swings can get extremely hot in the sun. A child’s skin can burn in seconds if they touch these surfaces. To stay safe:

• Do a touch test by pressing your palm against the equipment. If it feels too hot for you, it’s too hot for your child.
• Play early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak sun hours.
• Take frequent breaks in the shade.
• Keep water available for drinking and to wet their heads or T-shirts.
• Consider cooler activities like visiting a museum, library, or mall on hot days.

Keep the Hydration Coming

Hydration is essential for staying safe in the heat. Older children can drink water, but don't wait until they say they're thirsty. That means dehydration has already started. Signs include less urine and dark yellow urine. Babies get all the water they need from breast milk or formula, but after six months, you can offer extra water while monitoring for signs of dehydration.

If you're unsure if your child is too hot, take their temperature. A rectal temperature over 100.5°F to 101°F means it's time to take action.

Water Helps Outside Their Bodies Too

Using water on your child's body can help cool them down. Sprinkle room-temperature water on their head or limbs, or use a slightly damp onesie or T-shirt. Avoid cold water, which can be too shocking for their hot bodies. A wet T-shirt works best when combined with a fan to encourage evaporation. This method is especially useful in humid weather.

If your baby’s internal temperature is too high, a half-filled tub of room-temperature water can help lower it.

Chill Out at Home

There are several ways to keep your home cool:

• Open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross breeze.
• Use a box fan in your window to pull hot air out and let cool air in during the early morning or night.
• During the day, use dark shades or even a cardboard box to block sunlight from entering.
• Remove excess clothing and use water-based cooling methods as mentioned above.
• If you have air conditioning, set it to a comfortable level, usually between 75°F and 78°F.

If your child shows signs of lethargy, confusion, vomiting, or a temperature over 101°F, immediately place them in a cool bath and contact your healthcare provider. Taking these precautions can help keep your little ones safe and comfortable all summer long.