AAP News Vol. 12 No. 6 June 1996, p. 1
© 1996 American Academy of Pediatrics
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Heat wave: Hot weather threatens young lives

ANNETTE SPENCE

Avoiding heat-induced illness is largely a matter of common sense: Drink fluids, dress lightly, and if you experience symptoms such as cramps, nausea, headaches or dizziness, stop any activity and find a cool place to rest.

But not all parents, caretakers and coaches are cognizant of children's vulnerability to heat illness, experts say, possibly placing children at risk for heat exhaustion or heat stroke during summer.

Heat illness is of particular concern when an area experiences unusually hot weather, the way Chicago did last July and August. At least 625 Chicago deaths were related to temperatures exceeding 100, according to the Cook County medical examiner's office.

About three-fourths of the deaths occurred among the elderly, Illinois Department of Public Health officials said.