As the weather warms up, it’s important to be aware of how to keep children (and ourselves!) safe in heat and humidity. When the heat index (“feels like”) is over 90° F, children are particularly vulnerable to heat-related conditions.
This chart from the National Weather Service shows both how the heat index is calculated, and when temperatures become hazardous.
Some Ways to Keep Children Safe in Heat (tips from the CDC and HealthyChildren.org):
- Move outdoor time to early in the day, before the sun is high.
- Apply and re-apply sunscreen– sunburn can cause dehydration and prevent the body from regulating temperature appropriately. Sunscreen is important for people of all ethnicities and skin tones.
- Have drinking water accessible at all times, and encourage (and model!) frequent water breaks.
- Recommend that families dress in loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. Use UV protective clothing and sun hats for extra safety.
- Keep cool with safe water play. A sprinkler, misting bottles, or water table can all help regulate body temperature and keep everyone in a good mood.
- Know the signs of heat-related illness and be prepared to act accordingly.
470 IAC 3-1.1-39 Swimming
470 IAC 3-1.1-45 General Environment
470 IAC 3-1.1-46 Fire Prevention
470 IAC 3-1.1-47 Sanitation
470 IAC 3-1.1-48 Safety
- Pools – must be enclosed by a fence and have a lock (combination or key) on the gate.
- Shall not have loose handrails, torn screens, or open windows without screens. Fan blades shall not be accessible to children.
- Home is equipped with heat (when needed), lights, and ventilation
- Kitchen is equipped with stove, oven, or microwave, a refrigerator, and a sink with hot and cold water in the kitchen area
- Children shall not be cared for in a basement that does not have a direct exit to the outside.
- Exits shall not be blocked.
- Shall not have any gas leaks.
- Poisonous or hazardous materials shall not be in the reach of children.
- Tools shall not be within children’s reach.
- Firearms shall be kept in a locked area that is inaccessible to children.
- Drug use or paraphernalia is prohibited in the child care home when child care is being provided.
- Smoking is prohibited in the child care home or play area during the time children are in attendance. Ashtrays with cigarettes and/or ashes shall not be accessible to children.
- Alcohol use is prohibited in the child care home when child care is being provided.
Shall not be structural damage to the home.