MountainView Hospital - August 14, 2018

Las Vegas is exceptionally hot from late spring through early fall. During the summer, it’s normal to have a daily high temperature above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This can make summers difficult for families with young kids. Make it a priority to ensure your kids stay cool and hydrated this summer with these easy tips. And if you do suspect your kids are severely dehydrated or suffering from heat-related illnesses, family-centered emergency care at MountainView Hospital is always available.

Restrict outdoor playtime

It’s important for children to have unstructured playtime outdoors. Encourage your kids to get out during the cooler hours in the early morning and evening to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. During the hotter parts of the day, it’s best to stay inside in air conditioned rooms.

Provide light, cool outfits

Dress your children in lightly colored clothing that reflects that sunlight. Natural fibers are breathable, and they help wick away moisture. Have your kids wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses—and don’t forget the sunscreen!

Encourage frequent sipping

When kids are absorbed in their play, they might not notice when they get thirsty. Remind them to take frequent sips of cool beverages. Water and milk are healthy options.

Provide water-rich snacks

Another way to increase your children’s intake of water is to feed them foods that have high water content. Fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe and pears are excellent options. You could also pop some grapes in the freezer for a light, chilled snack.

Recognize the signs of a heat-related illness

Heat-related illnesses progress from heat cramps to heat exhaustion to heatstroke. Heatstroke requires emergency care, as it can be fatal if not treated promptly. If you notice any of these potential signs of heatstroke, call 911 immediately.

  • Confusion
  • Rapid breathing
  • Dizziness
  • Severe headache
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Seizures
  • Flushed, hot and dry skin
  • Lack of urine output/lack of sweating

If your child needs to be rushed to the hospital immediately, please call 911 now. Otherwise, for general healthcare questions, you can call a registered nurse at MountainView Hospital at (702) 962-5021. From our family to yours, we wish you a safe and fun-filled summer in Las Vegas!