Kids + Heat + Exercise = Danger

Two Recent Deaths Spotlight It; Senay: New Guidelines Should Help

(CBS)  Be on the lookout for changes in a child's physical ability, Senay advises. If he or she isn't able to run as fast or play as well as usual in the heat, it could be a sign of dehydration.

If a youngster seems to be dehydrated, move him or her to a shaded or air-conditioned area and give plenty of fluids to drink. As soon as the symptoms are gone, the child can continue to exercise, but it's important to continue to watch him or her.

How much a child should drink while exercising varies, depending on the child, Senay observes. The best idea is to make sure a child is hydrated before he or she starts exercising. Make sure there's plenty of water or sports drinks available during exercise. Give your child his or her own supply, and encourage them to drink it.

A simple way to tell how much fluid a child loses during exercise in the heat is by weighing the child beforehand and comparing it to the weight after exercise. If the child weighs less, they've lost fluid and they're not drinking enough. But remember, it's possible to over hydrate, so don't force your child to drink too much fluid.

As for how long a child should exercise in the heat before taking a break, the NATA generally recommends a five-to-ten minute rest break for every 20-to-25 minutes of activity for temperatures from 70 degrees up to 102 and humidity approaching 80 percent. Anything above that calls for shorter activity times, removal of equipment, and eventual cancellation of outdoor activities.