Summers in Canada bring more than just afternoons of swimming or family barbeques and picnics: they also bring the risk of extreme heat.

Extreme heat can be dangerous for everyone, but especially infants and young children. Here are some important things to know about keeping kids healthy during the heat.

Why are kids at risk? Given the unique physiological characteristics of children’s bodies and their high dependency on caregivers, they’re likely to be at risk during extreme heat events.

What can happen? Heat illnesses are mainly caused by overexposure to heat or overexertion in the heat, and if not prevented, can lead to long-term health problems and even death.

Stay alert for symptoms of heat illness. They include:
• Changes in behaviour (sleepiness or temper tantrums)
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Rapid breathing and heartbeat
• Extreme thirst
• Decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine

If you see any of these signs during extreme heat, immediately move the child to a cool place and give them water.
If you’re caring for a child who has a high body temperature and is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

While waiting for help, cool the child right away by:
• Moving them to a cool place.
• Applying cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing.
• Fanning the child as much as possible.

What can you do to keep your child safe? Keep them cool. If you have an air conditioner, use it. Additionally:
• Prepare meals that don’t need to be cooked in your oven.
• Block the sun by opening awnings and closing curtains or blinds during the day.
• If safe, open your windows at night to let cooler air into your home.
• Limit your time in the sun.

If you are breastfeeding your child, breast milk will provide adequate hydration, but remember to keep yourself hydrated so you can produce a sufficient amount of milk.

If your home is extremely hot: take a break from the heat and spend time with your child in a cool place. It could be a tree-shaded area, swimming facility, spray pad or an air-conditioned spot such as a shopping mall, grocery store or public library.
• Bathe your child in a cool bath until your child feels refreshed. Always supervise your child in the bath.
• If using a fan, keep it at a safe distance from the child and aim the air flow in their direction.

The summer is an important time for kids. Staying healthy and safe doesn’t have to mean denying
your children their summer fun, just having that fun with the right precautions. You can learn more at
canada.ca/heat.

Heat illnesses are mainly caused by overexposure to heat or overexertion in the heat, and if not prevented, can lead to long-term health problems…