How to Prevent Heat-Related Illness in Children
- 1). Identify climatic conditions in which heat-related illnesses are likely, and take precautions. These conditions are: temperatures of 95 degrees and higher and high relative humidity (when evaporation of sweat is more difficult).
- 2). Make sure the child is well-rested.
- 3). Have the child "chill" for the first few days after arriving in an area hotter than he or she is accustomed to. Limit physically exerting activity until the child is acclimatized; this will take longer than it will for you.
- 4). Schedule demanding activities for cooler parts of the day, and increase activities slowly.
- 5). Have the child eat lightly salted snacks.
- 6). Dress the child in baggy clothing that breathes well. Make sure the clothing is woven tightly enough to block the rays of the sun but loosely enough to let sweat evaporate.
- 7). Have the child wear a hat with a brim that covers the face; sunglasses; and sunscreen applied uniformly over the body.
- 8). Keep the child out of direct sunlight, and have him or her rest frequently in the shade.
- 9). Place a water-soaked bandanna or strip of cotton cloth on the child's forehead, top of the head or back of the neck if the child feels particularly hot.
- 10
Avoid giving the child antihistamines. - 11
Avoid giving the child caffeinated or carbonated beverages. - 12
Provide plenty of fluids, preferably water or diluted sports drinks. If the child doesn't like drinking water, flavor it lightly with a powdered mix.
Source...