How to keep children cool in the heat as they head back to school

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – With school almost back in session, two groups that are affected by heat stress are young children and student-athletes.

Here’s what to look out for when sending your kids back to school. The heat index is very important. The heat index means the temperature combined with humidity to get a real idea of how hot it is outside.

When it’s more humid outside, that means there’s more water in the air and higher humidity means less evaporation. Your body won’t be able to sweat as much, which is the body‘s way of cooling itself off.

And students participating in high-intensity, long-duration or repeated same-day sports practices and training activities during the summer months are at the greatest risk.

22News spoke with a college lacrosse player about what she and her team does to make sure everyone stays safe on the field.

“Well you know bring a couple of water bottles with you, make sure you’re always staying hydrated, make sure to bring a nice cool towel. And if you ever need a break just tell your coach and sit out,” said Isabella.

With a higher heat index it’s going to feel a lot hotter than the temperature suggests. And as temperatures remain high the next few weeks, it’s important to know how to keep your children safe when dealing with hotter conditions.