Keeping Your Cool During the Summer Heat
It’s summertime in Georgia, which means it’s hot, hot, hot! But with the coronavirus not slowing down and positive cases on the rise, it has been harder to find activities to do with your child that provide relief from the high temps.
Since most public pools and splash pads are still closed, what’s the best way for your family to beat the heat and stay safe playing outdoors this summer? While it is safest to stay close to home during the pandemic, check out our June post on “Exploring Georgia” for fun, family excursions and see below for other ideas you can easily do at home.
No matter where you or what you do, please keep our summer heat safety tips below in mind. It’s easy to become overheated fast when you are having fun!
Tips to make the most of the outdoors during summer:
Schedule outdoor time earlier in the morning and later in the afternoon.
Divide outdoor time into two, or even, three sessions.
Plan walking, biking and exploring excursions on shady paths and areas.
Create safe water play activities at home with water tables, sprinklers and, wet pads.
Have cooling stations setup outside: a fan with water spray, plenty of drinkable water accessible to children, and shade.
Don’t leave home without your masks and hand sanitizer.
Keep a distance of at least six feet between your family and others when meeting up with friends outside.
Safety Tips:
Don’t forget the sunscreen when heading outside, and be sure to reapply it frequently.
Keep babies out of direct sunlight for long periods.
Never, ever leave a child unattended in a vehicle even for a few minutes.
Watch for signs of heat-related illness: Cramps, very high body temperature, rapid pulse, dizziness, extreme headache, nausea/vomiting, athlete not sweating, confusion, paleness, fewer wet diapers for babies, and extreme sweating.
Use an effective insect repellant while playing outside.
Check to make sure that playground equipment isn’t too hot to the touch.
Dress children in loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing.
More information:
