Staying Healthy Through The End Of Summer

Sun and Heat Safety Tips

Even as the summer is coming to a close, the Southern California temperatures are still creeping up. To help keep you and your family safe throughout the season, keep these sun and heat safety tips in mind.

For children under 6 months old:
• Avoid any prolonged sun exposure for infants, and dress them in lightweight long pants and long sleeved shirts, as well as a wide brimmed hat. If the proper clothing and shade is not available, use a minimal amount of sunscreen with at least 15 SPF to small areas.

For children over the age of 6 months:
• Stay out of the sun when the sun is the strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Covering up from the sun is the best way to keep children safe from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
• Even when it is cloudy out, apply sunscreen that has at least 15 SPF and protects against both UVB and UVA rays.
• Use extra caution near sand and water since they reflect UV rays and can cause a dangerous and painful sunburn very quickly.

Heat stress dangers:
• Whenever the outdoor heat or humidity levels are at critical levels, children’s outdoor activities should have reduced intensity.
• Before any outdoor activities, children should drink plenty of fluids so that they do not feel thirsty. While active in the heat, make sure your children have access to a sports drink to keep them better hydrated.
• Dress your children in lightweight and light colored clothing of just one layer to keep them cool. Any shirts that are saturated with sweat should be replaced with dry clothing.

For more information on how to keep your children safe throughout the hot summer months, contact Pediatric Surgical Associates, your Orange and Mission Viejo Pediatric Surgeons in Orange County, California.

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