Doctors warn heat, kids not a good mix

DENVER — The hot temperatures we’re seeing are especially dangerous for kids, and doctors say keeping kids safe goes beyond common sense.

Dr. Steve Perry of Cherry Creek Pediatrics says parents should schedule trips outside in the early morning or late afternoon so they avoid the harsh sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

“If they’re going to take their children out they need to be prepared with lots of fluids,” Dr.  Perry says.

It can be tricky to figure out just how much water your child needs, so Perry offers this rule of thumb: “I usually recommend that they drink until their urine turns kind of white.”

Doctors say it’s important to read the label on your sunscreen, because some formulas aren’t right for babies under the age of 6 months.  It’s also a good idea to test surfaces of playground equipment and park benches, which can get very hot and scald a child’s skin.

For more information you can visit www.cherrycreekpeds.com and www.kidshealth.org.