Fires, floods, hurricanes and tornadoes are all dangerous, but did you know that extreme heat kills more people in the U.S. than any other weather event?
From the playground to football practice, extreme temperatures can turn dangerous — fast. Last year, at least seven teen athletes died during summer practice.
Scientists expect temperatures to continue to rise since the burning of fossil fuels, such as oil and gas, traps heat from leaving our atmosphere, driving many local communities to promote increased use of clean energy sources instead.
Children are among the most vulnerable in the summer heat.
“It has to do with how long you’re in the heat, how intense the heat load is, what you’re doing in the heat,” explained Dr. Thomas Clanton, a medical physiologist at the University of Florida who is a leading expert in heat stroke. “People who have experienced heat stroke, they have about a three to four times higher incidence of heart disease, about a four times greater incidence of kidney disease, and about a two times greater incidence of severe liver disease.”
Clanton says your cells remember the heat stress, and it can have a lasting imprint. That’s why it’s critical for parents to know the signs.
“About 80% of the people with heatstroke actually go unconscious,” Clanton said.
Children heat up faster than adults; that’s why you need to make sure you have a place to cool off.
For kids, fluid management is key. Make sure they’re hydrated, take frequent shade breaks, and watch closely for warning signs such as confusion, rapid breathing and headache.
And remember, as the temperature rises, so does the risk.
If a child stops sweating, collapses, or acts confused — call 911 immediately!