Safety Advisory As Temperatures Again Rise

According to Weatherchannel.com, the upcoming week again promises to be a scorcher in the local area. temperatures are expected to reach 98 and 99 degrees Fahrenheit on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and temperatures are much the same. Rain isn’t on the horizon until Friday, even then only possibly dropping daytime temperatures down to the middle 90s.

Walton Regional Medical Center’s Cuddlebugs program is reminding people about the dangers of this type of heat, in particular as it relates to children being left in cars. According to WRMC officials in a press release, 2010 was a record year for tragedies as a result, with 49 children dying because of being trapped inside a hot car. Officials pointed out it is a myth that a child is safe from heatstroke if left in the car for just a few minutes with the windows cracked. Even on a typical summer day, the temperatures inside a car can quickly rise to between 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Safety precautions are imperative and WRMC Cuddlebugs program shared the following safety precautions

• First and foremost, never leave your child in a car unattended. 
• Always be sure to lock your car doors and secure your keys when you’re home. This will reduce the chance of a small child sneaking into the vehicle without your knowledge. 
• Get into the habit of placing your purse or wallet in the backseat next to your child. This will force you to look back at your child before getting out. 
• When a child is missing, check your vehicles and trunks immediately. 
• Lastly, be sure to unload your children before the groceries. The ice cream will always refreeze.

How can you tell your baby is experiencing heat stroke?

Heat stroke symptoms in infants include:

• A temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher – but no sweating
• Hot, red, dry skin
• Rapid pulse
• Restlessness
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Headache (which may make your baby irritable)
• Vomiting
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Lethargy (Your baby might not respond with as much strength as usual.)
• Unconsciousness

What to do if your baby develops heat stroke?

With heat stroke, time is of the essence.  You must bring your baby’s internal temperature down as quickly as possible.

First, call 911. Then, undress your baby completely. Lay your baby down in a cool area. If you’re outside in the sun, find some shade, but if at all possible, move your child into a cool room.

While you’re waiting for the ambulance, sponge down your infant’s body with a washcloth or a rag that’s been dipped in cool water. Fan your baby with either an electric fan or simply your hand or a magazine.

Speak reassuringly to your baby and do not give them anything to drink. And though you may be tempted to give your baby acetaminophen, it won’t lower a temperature caused by heat stroke.

is a 77 licensed-bed acute care facility located in Monroe, with more than 100 physicians and 365 employees on staff. CuddleBugs is a free program offered by WRMC to provide answers to new and expectant moms from the earliest stages of pregnancy through post-delivery – including guidance for newborn care.  For more information about CuddleBugs, visit www.CuddleBugsBaby.com.