Keeping Kids Cool in High Heat in Troy

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By Jessica Gertler

Story Created: Jun 29, 2012 at 3:58 PM CDT

Story Updated: Jun 29, 2012 at 6:14 PM CDT

Temperatures hit the century mark today in Alabama, but it's not stopping some little ones from spending their day outside at summer camp. But the heat could be dangerous for children without the right safety measures.

Hundreds of children are participating in various sports clinics at Camp Butter and Egg in Troy this week. While those attending say the blazing heat hasn't been a problem, if they're not getting taking proper precautions, they could be in danger.

"In the morning from 8 to 11, we do baseball," says camper Will Parsons. "We get a little batting in."

The life of a camper. Hitting the field. Striving to better learn the game. No matter how high the temperatures rise.

"It's been a scorcher out here today, probably in the high 90s," says camper Trey Buchanan.

But what these Butter and Egg campers don't realize when it becomes too hot outside, Director Ron Pierce says the game changes.

"Lots of breaks. Lot of water breaks. We encourage them to drink water all the time. We take breaks every fifteen twenty minutes. Go in the shade for a while," says Pierce.

Children generate 25 to 50 percent more body heat during exercise, so they don't notice they're thirsty as quickly as adults do.

That's why health officials say pre-hydration is key. If children are spending the day outdoors, they ask them to follow this formula: drink one gallon of water per 100 pounds each day.

It's these simple safety measures that keep the little ones safe in this sweltering heat.

"We go in for water breaks about every thirty minutes, and sometimes I pour water in my hat to keep my head cool," says Buchanan.

While Camp Butter and Egg has water jugs placed throughout the grounds that doesn't mean all camps are like that. Health officials say parents should always pack their child their own water.

Health officials say parents should know how to test a child's level of hydration. They say to gently pull and release the skin on the back of the hand. If it takes too long to return to normal, the child may be dehydrated.
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