Simple Hacks to Keep Your Kids Safe from Arizona’s Scorching Heat

The summer heat is here. The intense heat in Arizona is no joke, and it's essential to know the best ways to keep your kids safe from the scorching sun.

Here are some ways to protect your precious littles from the desert’s unrelenting rays.

Spotting Heat Stroke & Heat Exhaustion in Children

Getting kids to drink enough water can be a task. As the sun ramps up the heat, dehydration can kick in fast, especially in our arid climate, and the fallout can hit fast.

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Heat exhaustion comes first. Watch your kids for signs of heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and muscle cramps. If you notice any of these telltale signs, get them to a doctor fast.

If heat stroke goes untreated, it can escalate and lead to heat stroke, which is much more serious.

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Spot the signs of heat stroke: if your child is showing signs of confusion, rapid breathing, a high body temperature (above 104°F), and has dry, hot skin, it may be a sign of heat stroke.

Don't wait. Call 911 immediately and work on cooling your child down. Run a cool bath, put cool compresses on the back of their neck, and have them drink slow sips of cool water.

Sunscreen: Your Best Defense Against Sun-Related Illness

Remember the expression "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure"? This is true for sun safety.

Start with a broad-spectrum, SPF 50+ mineral sunscreen to help protect their skin from the harsh rays of the sun. Mineral sunscreen takes a little more effort to work into the skin. According to MD Anderson Cancer Center, mineral sunscreen is less irritating to sensitive skin, and it reflects UV rays instead of absorbing them.

Apply sunscreen generously at least 15 minutes before getting out into the sun, and remember to reapply every two hours, or sooner if your kids are swimming or sweating.

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Hydration Hacks for Kids

It's hard enough getting kids to drink unflavored beverages, and they often don't realize they're thirsty until dehydration sets in. Here's a simple hack to make drinking water fun!

Load up some colorful bottles with fruit-infused water. Simply add high-quality, cut fruit, such as oranges, strawberries, cucumbers, and mint, or other favorites, to a pitcher of water. Let it sit overnight, and you have a delicious, flavored beverage without added sugars.

Add hydration challenges to the mix, and you've got a delicious, nutritious game that benefits everyone.

Signs of Dehydration in Children

Signs of dehydration in children can include dark urine, dry mouth, irritability, and, in young children and infants, fewer wet diapers. If you suspect dehydration is getting worse, seek medical help.

Arizona’s heat can be brutal, but with shade, hydration, and sun protection, your little ones can enjoy our desert summers safely.

Sources: MD Anderson Cancer Center | Parents Magazine | Childrens.com