It has been an extremely hot summer in Colorado this year, so we need to pay special attention to hyperthermia (extreme overheating) with young children. In the last six years, 230 children have died in a car due to hyperthermia. Of the children who died, 39 percent left in the car were "forgotten" by their caregiver, while another 27 percent died while playing in an unattended vehicle.

Overheating occurs when the body's core temperature reaches 104. A core temperature of 107 is deadly. It's important to watch for overheating in children because the system that regulates their body's temperature is not as efficient as that of adults. Children's bodies warm at a rate three to five times faster than adults'. So, it's much easier for them to overheat and, because they're young, not as easy for them to communicate their discomfort.

Safety recommendations for children

Never leave your child unattended in a car, even with the windows rolled down.

Be sure that everyone leaves the car when you unload. Don't overlook sleeping babies.

Always lock your car so kids can't play in it.

Keep a stuffed animal in the car seat. When you put your child in the car seat, place the animal in the front seat with you. This will help remind you your child is back there.

Or keep your purse or briefcase in the backseat. You'll have to go into the back to get it and are less likely to forget your child.

Make "look before you leave" a routine whenever you get out of your car.

Make sure you check the temperature of the car seat and seat belt before buckling your child in the car.

Don't keep your baby in his infant carrier for long periods of time on warm days. Carriers are enclosed and trap heat. It can be much hotter than you think.

Dress your child in light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

Have your child drink a lot of water (this is good advice for everyone).

Reduce or eliminate strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Warning signs for heat stroke include:

An extremely high body temperature; red, hot and dry skin (no sweating); rapid, strong pulse; muscle cramps; paleness; throbbing headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion or unconsciousness. If you suspect your child is overheated, cool them immediately with a cold bath and have someone else call for emergency treatment.

These health tips are brought to you by Dr. Matthew Kassel at Aspen Family Medicine, located in the Lowry area, at 8101 E. Lowry Blvd., Suite 250, Denver, CO 80230. Reach us at 303-366-1986 or visit our Web site at http://www.kassel_aspenfamilymedicine.ehcmd.com/.