With rising temperatures, it is important to take steps to protect those around us who might be vulnerable to the heat, like children, elderly adults and pets.

Keep children safe in the heat:

• Children produce even more heat than adults. This is because they have more body surface for their height. Children are also closer to the ground – and to hot pavement. They can easily become dehydrated or overheated. 
• Make sure children are well-hydrated.
• Give your child water before, during and after outdoor activity. Most kids do not need sports drinks, and they definitely do not need energy drinks. However, if you have a teenager who is active in sports, it is okay to give him or her a sports drink after practice or a game.
• Acclimatize your child over time if he or she is not used to the heat. It takes seven to 14 days to become accustomed to a hot climate, so get your child used to the temperatures by slowly increasing the amount of time you spend outside. 

Keep elderly loved ones safe:

• The elderly are also susceptible to heat-related illness. If you have an elderly family member, friend or neighbor, check in on them at least twice a day during heat spells.
• Remind them to consume cool water and avoid alcoholic beverages. 
• Take them to an air conditioned location if they don't have access to cool air or transportation.

Protect your pets:

• When temperatures rise, it is also important to protect your pet! Dogs lose heat through panting because they have very few sweat glands. 
• Provide a shady spot with plenty of water where dogs can cool off. Avoid dog houses because they can trap heat. 
• Keep short-faced breeds indoors as much as possible. Breeds like bulldogs, boxers and pugs have a difficult time cooling off and need cool temperatures.
• Apply sunscreen, especially on your pet's nose and ears, as well as any visible skin. Pets can sunburn just like people. 

If you or your child suffer heat exhaustion or dehydration, seek treatment at one of our Emergency Departments at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, Piedmont Fayette Hospital, Piedmont Mountainside Hospital, Piedmont Newnan Hospital or Piedmont Henry Hospital.

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