Inverness, FL — As temperatures rise across Florida and the state enters its hottest season, HCA Florida Citrus Hospital is reminding families to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses, especially among children, who are particularly vulnerable to dangerous heat exposure.
According to national safety data, more than 1,010 children have died from heatstroke after being left or becoming trapped in a hot vehicle over the past 25 years. Even on days that may not seem excessively hot, temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise rapidly, creating life-threatening conditions within minutes.
"Many people underestimate just how quickly a vehicle can become dangerously hot," said Dr. Jason Grabert, emergency medicine physician at HCA Florida Citrus Hospital. "A child's body temperature can rise four times faster than an adult's, which means they can develop heat-related illness much more rapidly. What begins as heat stress can quickly progress to heatstroke, a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment."
Heatstroke begins when the body's core temperature reaches approximately 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Without prompt intervention, heatstroke can cause severe organ damage, permanent disability and even death.
"Once a child's core body temperature reaches heatstroke levels, the situation can become critical very quickly," Dr. Grabert said. "Symptoms may include confusion, altered mental status, hot skin, rapid heartbeat, seizures or loss of consciousness. If you suspect a child is experiencing heatstroke, call 911 immediately and move them to a cooler environment while waiting for emergency responders."
Children are especially susceptible to heat-related illnesses because their bodies do not regulate temperature as efficiently as adults. Infants and young children are at the highest risk.
Heat safety tips for families
HCA Florida Citrus Hospital encourages parents and caregivers to follow these important heat safety practices:
- Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, even for a minute and regardless of whether the windows are cracked.
- Always check the back seat before locking and leaving your vehicle.
- Place a personal item such as a purse, briefcase, phone or employee badge in the back seat as a reminder to check for children.
- Keep vehicles locked when parked and store keys out of children's reach to prevent them from entering a vehicle unattended.
- Stay hydrated and encourage children to drink water regularly, especially during outdoor activities.
- Schedule outdoor play and exercise during cooler morning or evening hours whenever possible.
- Dress children in lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Watch for signs of heat-related illness, including excessive sweating, fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea or unusual behavior.
"If you see a child alone in a vehicle, don't hesitate to act," Dr. Grabert said. "And, call 911 immediately. Florida's heat can turn deadly in a very short amount of time; rapid intervention can save a life."