The dog days of summer are great for enjoying splash pads and swimming pools, but when the mercury rises into the triple digits, and the humidity adds an extra double-digit to the temperature index, your family will need more than sunblock and swimming suits to stay safe. Here are a few tips to ensure your crew doesn’t become overheated in balmy weather. 

Tips for Keeping Your Cool During a Heat Wave

• Dress your family in light fabrics that breathe and reflect (rather than absorb) the sun.
• Never leave your children (no matter their age) or pets inside a hot car—even for a few minutes! Hyperthermia can occur when the outside temperature is as low as 70 degrees, and the temperature inside a car can quickly rise to 20-30 degrees higher than the outside temperature in a matter of minutes, even if the windows are open. Dozens of kids and pets die every year when their bodies are unable to regulate internal temperatures and overheat. 
• Keep your family hydrated by providing water, ice pops, and fruit juices throughout the day. Avoid carbonated and caffeinated beverages, which can act as diuretics. 
• Avoid outdoor sports, chores, and strenuous activity when the temperature is over 90 degrees. 
• Bring the pets inside, and be sure they have access to fresh water, shade, and air conditioning during a heatwave. 
• If your kids do have to be outdoors on the hottest days, be sure to apply sunblock on exposed skin, and insist they wear sunglasses and a hat that covers their face. Remind them to drink plenty of water, even if they don’t feel thirsty. 
• Monitor your family for signs of heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. Signs of heatstroke may include bright red skin that is hot to the touch, confusion, dizziness, nausea, a rapid pulse, or seizures.  If you suspect your loved one may be suffering from heatstroke, call 9-1-1, then cool them down with water and bags of ice while you wait for the paramedics to arrive. 

For more information on keeping your family safe during a heatwave, visit the Red Cross.