MADERA, Calif. – With an unusual early-season heat wave gripping central California this week, health experts are warning parents to be vigilant, saying children’s bodies haven’t had time to adjust to the sudden spike in temperatures.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a widespread minor heat risk for central California on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. The risk level pertains to those who are sensitive to heat, including infants, according to the NWS.
Part of what makes a March heatwave dangerous – one that technically began in the winter season – is that children’s bodies aren’t ready for the early heat.
“Heat waves during the winter are particularly dangerous because children’s bodies have not had time to adjust and prepare to handle the stress of heat,” said Dr. Nikita Akkala, a pediatric resident at Valley Children’s. “During the winter, our bodies have decreased sweat capacity as well. Adjusting to the heat requires about 7-14 days of gradual heat exposure for our bodies to adequately adapt.”
Fresno has never seen a recorded March temperature exceed 91 degrees, according to the NWS – and with temperatures expected to surpass 91 in parts of the Valley this week, experts are reminding parents of the importance of staying aware of the signs of heat exhaustion in kids.
“Feeling faint, severe headaches, muscle cramps, loss of balance, not urinating as often as normal, feeling extra thirsty, feeling nauseous or vomiting, breathing faster than normal and confusion are all signs of heat exhaustion that parents should look out for,” said Dr. Jeffrey Chu, pediatric resident at Valley Children’s.
One of the best ways to combat the heat is to ensure that kids are hydrated.
“During high temperatures like this, it’s easier to become dehydrated. When we’re dehydrated, our bodies cannot produce as much sweat, and sweat is what helps our bodies cool down,” said Dr. Aman Upadhyay, pediatric resident at Valley Children’s. “High temperatures also put more strain on our bodies and raise the risk of heat-related illnesses.”
Doctors Akkala, Chu and Upadhyay recommend the following measures to help make sure children are safe during the heat wave:
- Always have water available, and encourage frequent hydration even if kids aren’t thirsty.
- Dress in light-colored clothing because light colors absorb less heat than darker ones.
- When they feel hot, help them cool off with a cold bath or water mist.
- Plan extra rest time indoors with cool temperatures.
- Never leave a child alone in the car.
