Summertime is around the corner & parents are busy planning all kinds of activities for their children. Often these activities are held outdoors because of the nice, summer weather. Parents need to be aware of the inherent dangers outside exercise poses for children. Here are important factors & warning signs parents, coaches & teachers should watch out for when supervising children during active outdoor play in the hot, summer temperatures.

1. Children dehydrate faster than adults; therefore, children should always drink water before, during & after activity, especially in hot weather.

2. Children should not "lose their breath" while performing physical activity. They should always be able to speak comfortably.

3. All parents, teachers, coaches & anyone else involved with children on a daily basis, should take an approved CPR course for adults, children & infants. It's worth 4-8 hours to save a life!

4. Inquire as to the qualifications of instructors & coaches in charge of activities & sports programs for kids. At least one person involved with your child should be CPR certified. Check for professional certifications & affiliations. Ask them how they treat the kids under their care and how they handle hot weather activity.

5. Strenuous outdoor activity should be limited to the coolest hours of the day (mornings prior to 11am, evenings after 4pm). Swimming is the exception, but be sure to apply sunblock liberally. Strenuous activity should be avoided if air quality is poor, and/or humidity is exceptionally high.

6. Indoor activity should be performed in rooms kept at temperatures between 68-72 degrees. Activities that take place in an air-conditioned area are a safe bet.

7. SIGNS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION: Fatigue, Weakness, General Malaise. Action: Stop activity, get to a cool place & drink plenty of cold water.
   SIGNS OF HEAT STROKE: Perspiration ceases, skin feels dry & clammy, dizziness, nausea, headache, blurred vision, irrational thinking. Action: Stop all activity immediately and get to a cool place & CALL 911. Lie down with head lower than feet, pour water over body, try to get child to drink cold water!

Follow these guidelines whenever children & adults are vigorously exercising or participating in outside activities such as team sports. Allow children to drink on a regular basis and especially if they tell you that they are thirsty. Respect children's requests to rest, drink or stop activity. Make sure the coach or supervisor of your child allows them to drink water if asked and let your child know that it is OK to tell someone when they do not feel well or are very thirsty. Only your child knows how they are feeling and they need to know to be aware of their body and the messages it sends. Remember, heat stroke and heat exhaustion can be deadly. Be aware, be smart and everyone will have a safe, happy and healthy summer!