COLD TEMPERATURES

Because Floridians are used to warm weather, extra precautions should be taken when traveling to cold climates. Dress your child in one more layer than you think you should. Children's small bodies lose heat more quickly and are not as well insulated as adults; as a result, children are at greater risk for hypothermia and frostbite.

If your child is numb, shivering or confused in cold climates, get him/her to a warm place and wrap in blankets. Do not expose your child to direct sources of heat such as fire or a heater. Call for help to be sure your child is properly cared for.

HOT TEMPERATURES

The hot and humid weather in Miami-Dade County can contribute to the onset of dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke. Small children can be at greater risk for these occurrences because their small bodies cannot fully regulate the body's cooling system.

To prevent heat-related emergencies, be sure to keep your child hydrated; provide a lot of water for him/her to drink. When your child is playing in hot and humid weather, limit playtime to short intervals and interrupt every so often for water breaks. Dress your child in non-restricting lightweight clothes.

Watch for these signs to tell you your child needs attention:

• high temperature.
• flushed complexion.
• feeling dizzy.
• feeling sick.
• feeling overtired.
• muscle cramps.

If you notice any of these signs in your child, get him/her to a cool place. Provide water for your child to drink and time for his/her body to recuperate in a cool space.

If your child seems confused, is not sweating or has a temperature above 103 degrees, call 9-1-1 immediately. These are signs of heat stroke and can be deadly. In this case submerge your child in cool water, but do not provide drinking water.

Never leave your child unattended in a hot car this can lead to heat stroke and ultimately death in a very short period of time.