Summer is a time for fun and adventure, but it also brings serious health risks for kids. Rising temperatures, longer outdoor playtime, and intense sun exposure can lead to dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion—especially in young children. Families Together of Orange County wants to make sure your family is prepared. Use these summer safety tips to protect your child’s health during the hottest months of the year.
Why Summer Safety Matters
Children are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses because their bodies don’t cool down as efficiently as adults. Simple precautions can help prevent issues before they start.
1. Keep Kids Hydrated
Children can become dehydrated quickly, especially when active in the sun.
Tips to prevent dehydration:
- Offer water often, even if your child isn’t thirsty
- Avoid sugary drinks and sodas
- Add fruit like cucumber or berries to water for flavor
- Bring a water bottle to all outdoor activities
Signs of dehydration in children include dry lips, fatigue, fewer wet diapers or bathroom visits, and irritability.
2. Use Sunscreen Consistently
Sunburns increase the risk of skin damage later in life. For kids over 6 months, sunscreen is essential.
Sunscreen tips:
- Choose SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum
- Apply 15 to 30 minutes before going outside
- Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating
- Don’t forget ears, back of the neck, and tops of feet
For babies under 6 months, avoid direct sunlight and dress them in protective clothing instead of using sunscreen.
3. Watch for Signs of Heat Illness
Heat exhaustion can happen fast. Know the signs so you can act quickly.
Signs of heat exhaustion:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness or fatigue
- Headache
- Pale or clammy skin
- Nausea or dizziness
Heatstroke is more serious and requires immediate medical attention. Signs include confusion, fainting, rapid breathing, and a body temperature over 103°F.
If you notice symptoms, move your child to a cool area, remove excess clothing, and apply cold compresses.
4. Dress for the Weather and Avoid Peak Heat
The right clothing and timing can help kids stay cool.
Tips for staying cool:
- Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton
- Avoid dark colors that trap heat
- Encourage outdoor play in the early morning or late afternoon
- Use hats and sunglasses for extra protection
5. Practice Water Safety
Whether it’s a pool, beach, or splash pad, water safety is a must.
Water safety tips:
- Always supervise children around water
- Enroll kids in swim lessons
- Use life jackets—not floaties—for non-swimmers
- Teach kids to never swim alone
When to Call Your Pediatrician
Call a pediatrician if your child:
- Has symptoms of dehydration or heat exhaustion that don’t improve
- Has a sunburn with blisters or a fever
- Experienced a near-drowning incident, even if they appear fine
We’re Here for You
Our pediatric team is here to help keep your kids healthy this summer. Whether it’s for heat-related care, hydration concerns, or a general check-up, we’re just a phone call away.
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