Heat

Here's what experts suggest to help keep kids cool:

- Increase fluids. As a result of their smaller sizes and lesser ability to sweat, kids are more susceptible to dehydration and heat illness than adults.
- Lighten up the wardrobe. Make sure garments are loose-fitting and light-colored to reflect, not absorb, the sun's energy. A wide-brimmed hat or a sports cap with a brim will help ward off rays. When clothes get sweaty, provide dry ones.
- Avoid the noonday sun. The sun's rays peak from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so schedule indoor activities during this time.
- Keep it small. Provide small meals and frequent snacks. Avoid high-protein foods, because they may increase body (metabolic) heat.
- Lock your car. A third of children's deaths heatstroke-related deaths in a vehicle happened when curious toddlers crawled into the family car and couldn't get out. Make sure you lock your vehicles when you park them at home.
- Know the symptoms -- and what to do.

- Heat cramps

Symptoms:

- heavy sweating
- painful muscle spasms in the legs or abdomen

What to do:

- Get your child to a cooler place and a comfortable position.
- Lightly stretch out the affected muscle.
- Provide fluids: a half-glass of cool (not cold) water every 15 minutes.

- Heat exhaustion

Symptoms:

- heavy sweating
- cool, pale and clammy skin
- weakness
- vomiting
- fainting

What to do:

- Get your child to a cooler place and a comfortable position.
- Remove or loosen tight clothing.
- Apply cool, wet cloths, such as towels or sheets, to the body.
- Provide fluids: a half-glass of cool (not cold) water every 15 minutes.
- Call your child's healthcare provider for advice.

- Heat stroke/sunstroke

Symptoms:

- body temperature of 106°F. or higher
- hot, dry skin
- rapid pulse
- rapid, shallow breathing
- loss of consciousness

What to do:

This is a medical emergency. Call 911 and your child's physician. While you're waiting for help:

- Get your child to a cooler place and immediately begin to cool the body.
- Put her in the bathtub or wrap wet sheets around her.
- Don't give her fluids if she's vomiting.

Other tips:
- Use a waterspray bottle.
- Use cool packs.