What Is Heat Illness?
In very hot weather, high humidity, and other conditions, body heat can build to dangerous levels. This can cause heat illness, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke. Heat exhaustion starts slowly, but if it's not quickly treated it can progress to heatstroke. In heatstroke, a child's temperature reaches 105°F (40.5°C) or higher. Heatstroke needs emergency medical care right away and can be life-threatening.
Quick Action Guide
🚨 Suspect Heatstroke? Call 911
- • Temp 105°F (40.5°C) or higher
- • Confusion, fainting, seizures, or loss of consciousness
- • Hot, flushed, dry skin with little or no sweating
- • Fast breathing or heartbeat, severe headache, dizziness
🩺 Heat Exhaustion — Act Now
- • Move to shade/indoors, undress, have child lie down with feet slightly raised
- • Place in lukewarm bath, spray with lukewarm water, or apply cool cloths
- • Give frequent sips of cool, clear fluids if alert and coherent
- • Turn onto side if vomiting to prevent choking
Signs & Symptoms of Heat Illness
🥵 Heat Exhaustion
- • Increased thirst, weakness, extreme tiredness
- • Fainting, muscle cramps, nausea or vomiting, irritability
- • Headache, increased sweating, cool clammy skin
- • Temperature rises but stays below 105°F (40.5°C)
🔥 Heatstroke (Emergency)
- • Severe headache, weakness, dizziness, confusion
- • Fast breathing/heartbeat, loss of consciousness
- • Seizures, little or no sweating
- • Flushed, hot, dry skin; temperature ≥ 105°F (40.5°C)
What Should I Do?
If Heatstroke Is Suspected
Get emergency medical care right away. Begin cooling while awaiting help.
For Heat Exhaustion
- • Move to cool place, undress, rest with feet elevated
- • Lukewarm bath, spray, or cool cloths on skin
- • Give cool, clear fluids in small, frequent sips if alert
- • Turn to side if vomiting; monitor closely
How to Help Prevent Heat Illness
💧 Hydration & Rest
- • Drink plenty of liquids before and during activities — even if not thirsty
- • Take frequent shade breaks and rest often
- • Come indoors right away if feeling overheated
🧢 Sun & Heat Protection
- • Wear light-colored, loose clothing; apply sunscreen and wear hats
- • Avoid intense outdoor activity during the hottest hours
- • Never leave kids alone in a parked car
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the fastest way to cool a child?
A: Move to shade/indoors, undress, apply lukewarm water (bath, spray, or cool cloths), and give cool sips if alert.
Q: When should I call 911?
A: If you suspect heatstroke — confusion, seizures, fainting, hot dry skin, or temp ≥ 105°F (40.5°C).
Q: What drinks are best?
A: Cool, clear fluids (water). Offer frequent small sips. Avoid very sugary or caffeinated drinks.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This article provides general information about heat illness in children and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you suspect heatstroke, call 911 immediately. For any concerns about symptoms or treatment, contact your pediatrician.