Heat Safety for Kids: A Pediatrician’s Guide to Staying Cool This Summer in Colorado

Summer in Denver is a magical time—outdoor adventures, play dates in the park, and family trips to the pool. But our state’s high elevation means stronger sun exposure and faster heat buildup, making heat safety for children more important than ever. As a trusted Denver pediatrician, we believe in caring for the whole child, body and mind. Read on for a practical, parent-friendly guide to keeping your child safe in the heat!

Why Heat Safety Matters

Denver and its surrounding areas enjoy over 300 days of sunshine, but high altitude also means less atmospheric protection. Kids are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses—particularly infants and toddlers, whose bodies struggle to regulate temperature effectively.

• Heat rash, cramps, exhaustion, and stroke are risks worth noting.
• Symptoms can come on fast, so awareness and quick action are critical.
• We emphasize the whole child health approach—layering prevention, hydration, and proper care.

How Heat Affects Kids Differently

Here’s what every Denver parent should know:

• Higher core temperature – Children’s bodies heat up faster than adults.
• Less efficient cooling – Kids sweat less, limiting their ability to cool down.
• Dehydration risk – Smaller fluid reserves mean they dehydrate more quickly.
• Behavioral factors – Kids often ignore thirst or overexert themselves.

Know the Signs: Heat-Related Illness in Children

Being able to recognize early symptoms can help you take action before it becomes serious:

Illness	Early Signs	Severe Symptoms
Heat Rash	Red bumps, itching in moist areas	Blisters, infection
Heat Cramps	Painful muscle spasms, thirst	Spasms progress despite rest
Heat Exhaustion	Weakness, headache, nausea, dizzy	Heavy sweating, pale skin, low BP
Heat Stroke	Confusion, hot dry skin, high fever	Seizures, unconsciousness (medical emergency)

Prevention Strategies for Busy Families

Here’s a list of expert tips for heat safety from your trusted Denver pediatrician partners:

1. Dress Smart

• Use lightweight, breathable clothing in light colors.
• Consider UPF-rated fabrics—great for added sun and heat defense.

2. Schedule Outdoor Time Carefully

• Avoid outdoor play from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when sun and heat peak.
• Prioritize early mornings or evenings for active play.

3. Encourage Hydration

• Kids should drink water before feeling thirsty—aim for 5–7 ounces every 20–30 minutes during vigorous activity.
• Include water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and berries.

4. Provide Shade

• Picnic under trees, set up sun umbrellas, or use pop-up tents.
• Portable shade is a lifesaver at parks, sports events, and poolside.

5. Adapt Activities

• Incorporate cooling breaks or indoor time during peak heat.
• Plan water breaks during sports practice or outdoor events.

6. Sun Safety in Tandem

• Always pair heat safety with broad-spectrum sunscreen—reapply every 2 hours, even on cloudy days.

Heat Safety Checklist for Parents

• Hats with a wide brim
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Regular water breaks
• Shade-friendly play options
• Breathable, sun-safe clothing
• Heat alert plan—know when to stay indoors

When to Take Action

• Heat Rash & Cramps: Cool shower, hydration, rest in the shade.
• Heat Exhaustion: Move to shade, elevate legs, give cool water, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
• Heat Stroke: Call 911 immediately. Cool the body with wet towels, mist, or ice packs while waiting for help.

How Schools & Caregivers Can Help

1. Modify Recess: Schedule shorter or shaded play during heatwaves.
2. Water Stations: Ensure accessibility at playgrounds, fields, and gym areas.
3. Educate Others: Teach children to recognize heat illness signs in themselves and peers.
4. Stay Connected: Encourage communication between pediatric partners, schools, and families to reinforce consistent care.

Can Hot Weather Affect a Child’s Mood or Behavior?

Absolutely. Excessive heat can lead to irritability, fatigue, and low mood. Combine this with disrupted sleep from hot nights, and your child may be more emotional or short-tempered. Managing heat exposure helps support not just physical, but mental and emotional wellness too.

At Partners in Pediatrics, we see heat management as part of a whole-child health approach—supporting both body and mind.

Lifestyle Habits for Long-Term Heat Resilience

• Stay active year-round to build heat tolerance.
• Monitor weather alerts and plan ahead.
• Teach kids about self-care: how to check their own thirst, take water breaks, and rest in the shade.

Final Thoughts on Heat Safety for Kids

Summer is meant to be enjoyed. With these heat safety tips, your family can embrace all that Denver offers—without compromising health. The key is preparedness, awareness, and consistency.

As your Denver pediatrician partner, we’re here to support your family’s whole-child health throughout the season. Have questions or need personalized advice? We’re always just a phone call or message away.

Stay cool—and enjoy those summer days!