Summer Heat Safety

Each year, in June, we discuss summer heat safety. We know that when our girls are outside in the summertime, the risk of sun damage, overheating, and dehydration are dangerous factors. Once again, our year has flown by so fast, and we’re already welcoming summertime. We wanted to provide an updated guide for heat safety that you and your family can follow during the hot summer days. 

Overheating 

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures and strenuous physical activity can lead to heat exhaustion. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and rapid heartbeat. Girls who are active and participating in sports or outdoor activities may be at a higher risk of heat exhaustion.

Heatstroke is a severe form of heat illness that can be life-threatening. It occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, and the core body temperature rises to dangerous levels. Heatstroke symptoms include a high body temperature, confusion, irritability, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even organ failure. Active girls who are not adequately hydrated or participate in intense physical activities in hot environments are at risk of heatstroke.

Spending extended periods outdoors without proper sun protection can lead to sunburn. Girls in outdoor sports or activities may be more exposed to harmful UV radiation. Sunburn can cause pain, redness, blistering, and long-term damage to the skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer later in life.

Dehydration

Young girls can quickly become dehydrated when engaging in physical activities, especially in hot weather. Sweating during exercise can lead to a significant loss of fluids and electrolytes, which can be dangerous if not replenished adequately.

Encourage young girls to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after physical activities. Water is generally the best choice, but sports drinks can be considered for activities lasting longer than an hour to replenish electrolytes.

Safety in the Summer

To mitigate these concerns and ensure the well-being of active young girls during summertime activities, it is essential to take certain precautions:

• Breaks and rest: Encourage frequent breaks during activities for rest and cool-down periods. Find shaded areas or indoor facilities where girls can take breaks from the sun and heat.
• Proper clothing: Dress girls in lightweight, breathable, light-colored clothing that protects them from the sun. Use hats and sunglasses to shield them from direct sunlight.
• Sun protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF before going outdoors. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if sweating heavily. Encourage sun-protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, as an additional barrier.
• Time of activity: Plan activities during cooler times of the day, such as early mornings or evenings, to avoid the day’s peak heat.
• Education and awareness: Teach young girls about recognizing signs of heat-related illness and the need to communicate any discomfort or symptoms to adults. Encourage them to listen to their bodies and seek help if they feel unwell.

Supervising and monitoring young girls during physical activities is crucial, ensuring they have access to shade, hydration, and appropriate rest to prevent overheating and related health risks.