Here we go.
The forecast is for triple digit weather through mid-week. Those of us with young children may want to head to the area’s swimming pools and public fountains. But you should also keep the following information and advice from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in mind:
1. Your child is more susceptible to heat-related illness than you are. According to the AAP, children do not tolerate heat as well as adults, particularly when they’re running, walking or participating in sports. Their higher surface area-to-body ratio results in greater heat gain, they produce more metabolic heat per mass unit and their sweating capacity is considerably lower than adults’. For all of these reasons, parents should be particularly vigilante about their children’s activities outdoors on hot days (especially when the mercury hits 95 degrees – or more)
2. Push those fluids! Parents need to ensure that kids get enough to drink on hot days. According to the AAP, children frequently do not feel the need to drink enough to replenish fluid loss and don’t understand the importance of staying hydrated. The combination can lead to severe dehydration. Although water is an easily available drink, a flavored beverage – juice, sports drinks – may be preferable because the child may drink more of it.
3. The intensity of activities that last 15 minutes or more – e.g. sports practices, camps – should be reduced. Before prolonged physical activity, the child should be well-hydrated. During the activity, periodic drinking should be enforced – every 20 minutes – even if the child does not feel thirsty.
4. Clothing should be light-colored and lightweight and limited to one layer of absorbent material to facilitate evaporation of sweat. Sweat-saturated garments should be replaced by dry garments.
You’ll find more information at the following links:
The Centers for Disease Control’s extreme heat guide.
The AAP’s sun safety information
Portland Parks & Rec’s hot weather tips.
P.S.: Remember to check in frequently with your elderly relatives and friends during these very hot days. They’re even more susceptible to heat-related illness than young children.

July 27th, 2009 | Category: Metro Parent