This week is expected to warm up to the mid-80s and near 90 on Friday. It’s time to beat the heat.
The Kent Regional Fire Authority offers the following tips to keep children safe while driving around town or on trips, as well as ways to stay cool in the heat:
Child safety in vehicles:
• Any time you leave your vehicle, take all children with you. It will slow you down, it will create more work, but it may save a child’s life and it is the law.
• If you need a reminder about children in the back seat, place your briefcase or purse next to the child. Another trick is to leave the diaper bag on the front seat as a reminder. These types of reminders are especially important if you do not regularly carry children in your vehicle.
• Get into the habit of looking before you leave. As you exit your vehicle scan the interior to look for children or other things that need your attention.
• Place electronic reminders to yourself on your smart phone or email calendar to check on your child.
• If your spouse or other adult is carrying a child and does not normally do so, call them to ensure that the child has been removed from the vehicle.
• If you are concerned about a child you see alone in a vehicle, call 911.
Update: Over the weekend in the U.S., two more children died after being left in vehicles, bringing the national total to 21 this year.
Be ready for the heat and follow these tips:
Stay cool:
• Stay indoors – Consider visiting a mall, theatre, or other air-conditioned location.
• Shut the blinds or drapes on any windows that receive morning or afternoon sun.
• Check on elderly family members and acquaintances frequently.
Drink liquids:
• Drink plenty of water or other non-caffeinated/alcohol beverages.
• Take bottled water if you plan on spending time outdoors. Bring extras for those who forget to plan ahead.
When outdoors:
• Limit your exposure to direct sunlight.
• Wear sunscreen on all exposed skin surfaces. Children are especially susceptible to burning.
Water safety:
• Always supervise children when near any body of water.
• Wear a properly fitting, Coast Guard approved life jacket.
• Swim at locations that have a lifeguard on duty.
• River and lake water temperatures are still very low and can quickly sap your strength.
• Always take a buddy and a cellphone when near the water.
Recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and hyperthermia:
• Headache, muscle cramping, profuse sweating and nausea/vomiting.
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