INDIANAPOLIS -
The 100-plus degree temperatures could pose a danger to children.
Indianapolis mother Karen Melbert says her children like to be outside. They walked to their car at Butler University Thursday afternoon, following some indoor swim lessons into heat approaching 100 degrees.
"I just make sure that they are hydrated. We have a household full of kids who are student athletes. They are used to hearing that," Melbert said of keeping her children safe.
Hydration is the same advice from Dr. Jennifer Rice at the IU Health emergency room. Because of the 100 degree-plus forecast, she warns being outside a long time in the heat is risky.
"On days like today, to limit how much time they are outside and to check in on a regular basis to make sure that they have not dehydrated," Rice said.
The heat illness warning signs include exhaustion, headache, muscle cramping, dizziness and thirst.
Butler University Head Basketball Coach Brad Stevens mapped out an overheating game plan for their young athletes in camp this week.
"We are making sure that they are either in shaded areas if they are out here, but certainly spending time in the air conditioning," Stevens said.
While some children swim to cool off, others will hit playground equipment. Eyewitness News used a laser temperature gun to measure the heat on some playground equipment, which registered at 140 degrees. That's one more reason to make sure children playing outside are hydrated properly. Doctors give the same warnings for adults outside - especially people like runners.
"Both adults and children should be very careful outside in the heat," Rice said.
She warns parents should closely monitor children with pre-existing conditions even more so and possibly decrease their exposure to the heat. The recommended drink for children outside in the heat is water. The normal intake of water for children is 6-8 glasses of water to avoid dehydration. When temperatures top 100, parents should consider even more water.
Heat Safety for Children
Parents should make sure children stay hydrated in extreme heat.
Coaches at Butler's basketball camp are keeping a close eye on the campers.
The surfaces of playground equipment can surpass 140 degrees.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WTHR. For more information on this site, please read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
