Millions of children are heading to school in August during the worst heat wave in recorded human history. Children in Atlanta and San Bernardino, California, kicked off their school year this week in temperatures well above 90 degrees Fahrenheit . “We start to get into really dangerous territory when the heat index is greater than 90 degrees, because that’s a significant health threat for heatstroke and heat illness,” said pediatrician Dr.
A child exhibiting any signs of heat illness should be taken into air conditioning or shade immediately and be sprayed or given compresses of lukewarm or cool water, experts say. Emergency treatment may be necessary. Focus on prevention While much of the child’s day is spent in the school under the care of a teacher, there are actions families can take to help prevent heat illness.