07/02/2026
🌡️ Heat Advisory Safety Tips for Families ☀️
With temperatures expected to climb above 100°F this holiday weekend and remain in the upper 90s next week, now is a great time to review summer safety recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
💧 Hydration matters!
For older infants, children, teens, and young adults, encourage frequent water breaks throughout the day—especially during outdoor activities.
🍼 Important reminder for infants under 6 months:
Babies under 6 months should NOT be given water unless directed by your healthcare provider. Breast milk or formula provides the hydration they need, even during hot weather.
☀️ Sun protection by age:
👶 Under 6 months: Keep babies in the shade whenever possible and dress them in lightweight clothing that covers the skin. Sunscreen is generally not recommended for routine use in this age group.
🧒 6 months and older: Use a mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating. Avoid applying sunscreen to babies’ hands since little ones often put their hands in their mouths.
👙 Don’t stay in wet swimsuits too long!
After swimming, change into dry clothing when possible. Prolonged time in wet swimsuits can contribute to skin irritation, rashes, and irritation of the ge***al area.
🚗 Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle—not even for a minute.
🌳 Seek shade, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and watch for signs of heat illness such as dizziness, headache, nausea, unusual fatigue, confusion, or decreased sweating.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and have a safe holiday weekend, Statesville families! 💚