Stay safe in summer heat
by Bryan Jones, certified athletic trainer
MCG Sports Medicine Center
Summers are often filled with camps, practices and tournament games in preparation for the school year. But summer is one of the most dangerous times of the year to be active outdoors because of the intense heat, especially in the South.
According to the Rehydration Project of 2002, 2.2 million children die each year from dehydration. But precautions can help ward off this life-threatening condition. (see below: Tips for exercising in hot weather)
Know the first signs of dehydration: thirst, dry lips, dry mouth, flushed skin, fatigue, irritability, headache, dark urine and decreased urine output. Heat cramps are next, followed by heat exhaustion (difficulty breathing, dizziness, chills, nausea, vomiting and extreme weakness).
Rest, a cool environment and cool liquids are advised to treat these early stages. However, should signs of heat stroke develop (rapid and shallow breathing, rapid heartbeat, unusually high or low blood pressure, lack of sweating, mental confusion, disorientation, collapse or loss consciousness), call 911 immediately.
Tips for exercising in hot weather
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