Preparing for an extreme heat event in child care and school settings
All four National Weather Service regions in Colorado will be in Heat Risk category red
(major) for three consecutive days from July 12 to 14. In addition to extreme heat,
smoke from fires across the Western U.S. could lower air quality starting Thursday and
into the weekend.
This extended heat level affects everyone, especially those without access to cooling
systems and hydration. Fans and open windows will not be enough to stay cool.
Infants, young children, and outdoor athletes are particularly at risk. According to the
NWS, power interruptions may occur.
Multiple days in a row of extreme heat can increase your risk of heat-related illness.
Extreme heat at the beginning of the season can be particularly dangerous because it
is harder for the body to adjust to the extended change in temperature. Heat-related
illnesses are preventable.
Prevent heat-related illness
- Infants and young children rely on others to keep them cool and hydrated. Use
the HeatRisk tool and Air Quality index to develop day-to-day care plans.
- Review these heat tips and create a heat action plan with the doctor or care
provider of a child with an underlying medical condition, such as asthma.
Know the signs of heat-related illness and when to seek medical care.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be deadly if not treated properly and
rapidly.
Consider canceling outdoor activities or events
According to NWS, at Heat Risk red (major), you may consider canceling outdoor
activities during the heat of the day, which usually occurs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and
move activities to the coolest parts of the day. CDC guidance for Heat Risk red
(major) recommends moving outdoor activities to a cooler day, if possible.
The National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education
also has guidance on playing outdoors in warm weather.
Prepare your facility
According to NWS, power interruptions may occur during Heat Risk red (major).
Resources for facility preparedness and response are available, including a Heat Alert
Plan for the facility. Americares, a Disaster Relief and Global Health Organization,
created these resources for health centers but they can be adapted for use in schools
and childcare facilities.
Resources for infants and children.
Learn about heat-related illness, warning signs and symptoms, and
treatment options. In addition, keep your school or child care facilities
safe from extreme heat by understanding prevention strategies
presented in this course. This is a web-based training for school nurses,
teachers, coaches, and students. The course takes approximately one
hour to complete.
For more information, visit CDPHE’s webpageon how to protect your health during
extreme heat.
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