Extreme Heat Risks for Children

Via Climate Central
Via Climate Central
Climate Change and Rising Temperature
    • Extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the U.S.
    • Climate change has increased average temperatures and extreme heat events across the U.S.
    • Temperatures will continue to rise without significant reductions in carbon pollution
Heat Risks for Children
    • Nearly 12% of emergency department visits by children in the U.S. between May and September are due to excessive heat
    • Children, particularly babies, younger kids, and athletes, are among those most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses
    • Babies and young children have difficulty regulating their core body temperature, sweat less, and acclimate to heat more slowly than adults
    • Kids may overlook or fail to notice symptoms of heat stress during outdoor sports or play
Protecting Children From Heat
    • Protecting children from dangerous heat at home, at school, and during outdoor activities is possible with awareness and preparation
    • Key measures include checking tempeature and heat risk forecasts, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat, taking breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, ensuring hydration, and recognizing heat illness symptoms
    • The most impactful action to slow the rate of warming and ensure a safer future for younger generations is a commitment to rapid and sustained reductions in carbon pollution
Visit climate central to learn more
CONSORTIUM CONTACT EXPERT

Lisa Patel,MD, MESc, FAAP
Executive Director, Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health
Clinical Associate Professor in Pediatrics, Stanford University
Relevant expertise: Children’s health
Contact: lpatel9@stanford.edu