08/24/2026
Exhaustion/heat stroke in children, these are the most important tips:
☀️ Preventing heat illness in children
Hydration: Offer water frequently, especially during outdoor activities. For prolonged exercise or heavy sweating, an electrolyte drink can be useful.
Avoid peak heat: Limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, roughly 10 AM–4 PM.
Light clothing: Loose, lightweight, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
Frequent breaks: Have children take breaks in shade or an air-conditioned area every 20–30 minutes during intense heat.
Never leave a child in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Vehicle temperatures can become dangerous very quickly.
Watch infants closely: Babies can become overheated and dehydrated more quickly than older children.
Sun protection: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating.
🚨 Signs of heat exhaustion
Heavy sweating
Pale or clammy skin
Headache
Dizziness or weakness
Nausea/vomiting
Muscle cramps
Fast pulse
Move the child to a cool/air-conditioned place, remove excess clothing, cool the skin with cool wet cloths, and give fluids if the child is awake and able to drink.
🚑 Heat stroke is an emergency
Suspect heat stroke if the child has confusion, unusual behavior, loss of consciousness, seizure, or very hot skin, particularly after significant heat exposure.
Call 911 immediately and begin rapid cooling—move them to a cool place, remove excess clothing, and use cool water/wet towels or a cool bath while waiting for emergency help. Don't force fluids if the child is confused, unconscious, or having a seizure.
