Summer fun is still in full swing in Savannah, Georgia, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits, which poses potential risks, particularly for children. This week, experts are providing parents with strategies to ‘beat the heat’ and keep families cool and safe. In an interview with doctors, provided insights on identifying early warning signs of heat-related issues and suggested the best spots in Savannah for staying cool.

This weekend, more than 130 million people across the United States were under a severe heat alert, with the Coastal Empire experiencing similar high temperatures. Children enjoying splash pads are on the right track to keep cool in the heat. Nevertheless, despite these efforts, kids are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses compared to adults. This is largely due to the unique way their smaller bodies function, making it critical to recognize early symptoms to avoid any serious issues.

Youngsters are at greater risk of heat stress because they overheat more quickly and have less efficient cooling mechanisms, even while they are swimming or playing in cooler areas. Healthcare providers caution that signs like headaches, nausea, or irritability could indicate heat exhaustion or even progress to heat stroke.

Pediatricians recommend drinking plenty of water. This means drinking at least 6 to 8 cups a day and reapplying sunscreen every two hours. Experts say once the heat index climbs over 90 degrees, which it will today, it’s best to stay indoors if you can. If you’re inside, fans alone won’t prevent overheating once indoor temperatures hit 95 degrees, then you’ll need air conditioning or a visit to a cooling center.

It’s best to have a plan of where you can be inside with your family and kids.

“The proportion of their (a child’s) body is really what makes them more susceptible. You would think being a larger individual, as an adult, you would be more susceptible for that reason. But it’s not. When kids sweat and are outside running with activity, they’re burning off so much that it makes them more susceptible to illness. Even in the pool, kids could still suffer from heat illness. So, it’s really important to pay attention to signs,” said Dr. Ashley Cheek, a pediatrician at Memorial Health.

If you’re at the beach or poolside, remember that while cooling off, swimming kids can overheat. Pediatricians recommend limiting outdoor play to before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. If your child is active, sports drinks can help restore lost electrolytes.

The good news? Savannah pools and splash pads are open and ready. Savannah pools are open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and then again from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. today. Splash pads are open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The city extended hours for areas that help combat heat.

Pool hours have been extended in locations such as:

• Daffin Park, 1301 E. Victory Drive
• Tompkins Regional Center, 2333 Ogeechee Road
• W.W. Law Regional Center, 900 E. Bolton St.
• Bowles C. Ford, 1900 Stiles Ave.

City splash pad hours have been extended in locations across the city, such as:

• Forsyth Park,10 Whitaker St. 
• Crusader Park, 81 Coffee Bluff Villa Road
• Forrest Hills Park at Skidaway Road and Berkshire Road
• Avondale Park at Texas Avenue and Ohio Avenue
• Hudson Hill, 2227 Hudson St. 
• Hull Park at 55^th Street and Atlantic Avenue
• Tatemville, 333 Coleman St.
• Montgomery Crossroads, 401 W. Montgomery Crossroads
• Victory Heights Park at East 42^nd Street and Taskin Avenue.
• Savannah Gardens, 516 Pennsylvania Ave.

Cooling Centers have also extended their hours from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., along with homeless service providers and day centers.

Extreme heat is one of the deadliest weather events in the U.S. More than 700 people die from the strong heat each year. However, heat-related illnesses are preventable. With a little planning, plenty of water, and maybe a splash of fun, families in Savannah can beat the heat safely.