Beat the Heat: Keeping Kids and Expecting Parents Safe in Hot Weather

August 3, 2026

Hot summer days mean plenty of outdoor fun, but when temperatures skyrocket, extreme heat can quickly become dangerous.

According to guidance from public health experts at the EPA and the Oregon Health Authority, young children, infants, and pregnant people feel the effects of heat much faster than others. As parents, child care providers, and early educators, knowing what to watch for and taking quick steps to stay cool can keep everyone safe.

Why Hot Weather is Harder on Kids and Pregnant Moms

Infants & Young Children

Their bodies heat up faster: Little bodies lose water quickly through sweating and have a harder time regulating their temperature.
They depend on us: Toddlers often get so caught up in playing that they forget to rest or drink water until they're already dehydrated.

Pregnant Individuals

Extra work for the body: Pregnancy already makes the heart and body work harder. Extreme heat adds extra stress.
Health risks: Getting overheated—especially during a heatwave—can trigger early labor, low birth weight, or make pregnant parents feel dizzy and sick much quicker.

Simple Ways to Stay Safe and Cool

1. Daily Protection

Change play times: Plan outdoor play for early morning before the sun gets too strong. Keep everyone inside or in the shade during the hottest afternoon hours.
Dress light: Choose loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.
Never leave anyone in a car: A parked car gets dangerously hot in just a few minutes, even with the windows cracked. Always double-check the back seat!

2. Hydration Habits

Offer water constantly: Don't wait for kids to say they are thirsty. Offer small sips of water regularly throughout the day.
Pregnant staff and parents: Keep a water bottle close and aim to sip water all day long. Limit sugary drinks or extra caffeine, which can dehydrate you faster.

3. Extra Care for Babies

Check wet diapers: Dark urine or fewer wet diapers than usual is a top sign of dehydration.
Take off the hat indoors: Hats trap heat on a baby’s head. Only use sun hats when outside in direct sunlight.
Skip direct fans: Don't blow a fan directly on a baby's skin—it can actually dry them out and dehydrate them faster. Instead, cool down the room itself or use cool, damp cloths.

Early Warning Signs: What to Look For

Catching heat illness early makes all the difference. Here is a simple guide to recognizing when someone needs help:

Signs to Look For	What It Could Be	What to Do Right Away
• Dry mouth • Crying with no tears • Extra fussy or sluggish • Dark or dry diapers	Dehydration	Move them to a cool, shady spot. Offer small sips of water or an electrolyte drink.
• Heavy sweating • Dizziness or headache • Pale, clammy skin • Muscle cramps or nausea	Heat Exhaustion	Bring them indoors immediately. Loosen tight clothing, apply cool wet towels to their skin, and give sips of water.
• Body temp over 103°F • Red, hot, dry skin • Confusion or fainting • Throwing up	Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency!)	Call 911 right away. Move them to the coolest spot possible and use cool water on their skin. Do NOT give fluids if they are confused or vomiting.

Quick Tip for Programs & Families

Before heading out for the day, check your local heat index or weather forecast. If a high heat warning is issued, pivot to indoor activities, movie time, or indoor water-play crafts!