SAVANNAH, Ga. () – When the sun is shining, kids love to play, but the temperature is rising – and heat danger and exhaustion can happen fast. It is important to keep them cool and hydrated as children’s bodies heat up three to five times faster than the average adult. Be careful on the playground. High temperatures and the beating summer sun can heat up the equipment and burn children’s skin.

The temperature on my Weather App says 84 degrees. The temperature of the slide with my thermometer says 121 degrees! That’s about a 35-degree temperature difference so always make sure to check playground equipment before children climb or sit. 

Dr. Ashley Cheek, Pediatrician at Memorial Health, says “The playground equipment looks the same all year round, but depending on what the weather is that day, it can be very hot and can cause really severe burns, even third-degree burns.”

To avoid injuries or burns, make sure to plan time outside away from the heat of the day or in the shade. The best time to be outside would be in the morning or the evening.

Dr. Ashley Cheek also says “I think it’s an important point and especially for the summer is when you’re going to the park, try to go before 10am or after 4pm. Those are the best times as far as sun exposure for kids. Playground equipment in direct sunlight also causes a risk of heating up quickly or even slowly and still causing damage.”

If you have to be outside during the heat of the day when the sun is the highest in the sky, the best way to check equipment is with the back of your hand. It’s less tough making it easier to feel the heat. It’s also easier to pull your hand away to avoid getting burned.