According to NoHeatStroke.org, 864 children have died due to Pediatric Vehicular Heatstroke (PVH) since 1998. All these deaths could have been prevented.

Overview

To prevent any type of heat-related illness, parents and caregivers must understand the risk factors for heat stroke and the symptoms of milder heat ailments such as heat exhaustion or cramps exhibit in children.

The first question to ask, does your child have any of the risk factors for heat exhaustion? Children may be at a higher risk for heat exhaustion if they:

• Are overweight or obese
• Are taking certain medications
• Have a sunburn
• Are sick

Symptoms for Heat Exhaustion

Heat Stroke often starts with heat cramps or exhaustion. If a child has been exercising or playing in the heat without taking in the necessary fluids, dehydration may occur.  Children who are dehydrated and showing signs of heat exhaustion can exhibit the following signs:

• An elevated body temperature, usually less than 104˚ Fahrenheit
• Cool, clammy skin despite the heat
• Goose bumps
• Fainting, dizziness or weakness
• Headache
• Increased sweating
• Increased thirst
• Irritability
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea and/or vomiting

How to Alleviate Heat Exhaustion

Once a parent or caregiver sees one or more of these signs, it is vitally important that they quickly work to cool and hydrate the child by:

• Taking him or her to a cool, shaded place
• Encouraging him or her to drink cool fluids like a sports drink with Electrolytes in it. (See our blog about Electrolyte drinks)
• Applying a cold wet towel such as a Pyramex Cooling Towel  to the skin
• Gently stretching or massaging sore painful muscles in his or her legs, arms or abdomen if cramping occurs

Heat Stroke is a severe medical emergency. If your child still shows signs of lethargy or refuses to drink seek medical help quickly.

Heat Exhaustion First Aid Kit

As parents and caregivers of children, it is important to be ready with a first-aid kit that covers a multitude of ailments. For Heat Exhaustion, healthcare professionals suggest that you pack a cooler with plenty of cold water, electrolyte drinks, and moist towels such as  the Pyramex safety cooling towel. This towel is made from a PVA material and specially blended polymers that absorb moisture to keep your children cool for up to 5 hours.  just soak in cool water for use.

Contact BlackHawk Industrial

Our mission at BlackHawk Industrial is to provide innovative, value-added services and products that reduce our customer’s total cost. Our PPE professionals are happy to help. You can contact us for more information about products that help relieve heat stress at 855-610-1001 or [email protected].

References

https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/motor-vehicle-safety-issues/hotcars/

https://www.childrens.com/health-wellness/heat-stroke-symptoms-in-children