Child Safety in Hot Climates

Typically, the warm season is the time to encourage children and young people to exercise, explore, play outside, and exercise. However, when temperatures rise so high that they pose a health risk, it’s prudent to be wary of dehydration, heat cramps, exhaustion, and other dangers that might present in extreme heat. This is particularly important when traveling with children to hot climates, where preparation and research can go a long way toward keeping kids safe.

Make Wise Destination Choices

When it comes to making your choice of travel destination, be conscious of the where and when – especially if kids are involved. The timing of a vacation trip is important, as certain destinations can be unbearably hot in the summer. For example, desert locations fall into this category, as do certain tropical regions where the humid conditions can reduce the ability to enjoy a location.

Plan Ahead

Going to the beach or swimming pool can be one way to keep children busy on a hot day. However, with prior knowledge of when it’s going to be hot, you can plan creative ways to keep young ones occupied. As Brandon Glickstein – a frequent traveler who often takes his child with him – knows, it’s vital to have activities and games that can keep kids occupied during periods of extreme heat. Visiting buildings or places of interest that offer shelter from the heat is an important option to consider.

Stay Hydrated

‘Stay hydrated’ a common refrain during hot seasons, with good reason. Both adults and children should drink plenty of water on a hot day and ideally not wait until they’re thirsty to do so. Parents and guardians should encourage children to drink water frequently if they’re outdoors, in 15 to 20-minute intervals. While it’s tempting to consume sugary or caffeinated beverages, these don’t help much in hydrating the body.

Take it Easy

While planning for a trip in the summer months, consider resting during the hottest times of the day and planning for engaging activities in the early morning or evening. Carry loose and light-colored clothing for children, which will help to maximize sweat evaporation for them, and remember to apply sunscreen. Give kids a cool bath when they get hot, and if they’re going to swim or play in the water to cool down, ensure there’s an adult present to supervise them. Last of all, even with the windows down, children should not be left unattended inside a car.