Children’s laughter, inflatable structures, chaos and a raffle… No doubt, we are at the end of the school year, and fairs are invading the schoolyards. But in this heat, these highlights can also carry some risks. Here’s what you might not be thinking about, according to emergency room doctor Gérald Kierzek.
The number one danger: heat stroke
When temperatures rise, children are particularly at risk of dehydration and heat stroke. Between racing in the sun, waiting in line for attractions, and the excitement, they often forget to drink or rest.
“The most underestimated risks are mainly linked to heat, dehydration and agitation”warns Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
The problem ? The first signs sometimes go unnoticed. A tired child at the end of the day may simply seem exhausted from the festivities as they begin to suffer from the heat.
Certain symptoms should attract the attention of parents and supervisors. Among them, sudden fatigue, an unusually soft child, very pale or on the contrary very red, who complains of headaches, dizziness or nausea.
Intense thirst, unusual irritability or, conversely, a particularly calm and unreactive child should also prompt vigilance.
When should you worry?
Some symptoms require a quick response. You should consult or call for help if the child becomes confused, speaks incoherently, has difficulty walking, loses balance or feels unwell. Repeated vomiting, severe drowsiness, difficulty waking up or very hot skin associated with great fatigue are also warning signs.
“In this case, you must immediately stop the activity, put the child in a cool place and call for help if the symptoms are severe or persist.” insists the emergency doctor.
Behind the games, other dangers often forgotten
Heat is not the only risk present during fairs. Falls and collisions are also common when several children run or participate in dynamic play in a sometimes confined space.
Inflatable structures also require special vigilance. Very popular with young people, they can become dangerous when they are overloaded, insufficiently supervised or poorly secured to the ground.
“Children can be injured more easily if the ground is slippery, if the games are too intense or if wind and storms arrive during the activity”underlines Gérald Kierzek.
Temporary installations also deserve careful monitoring. Electrical cables must be kept out of reach of children and structures must be properly secured.
Common sense remains the best ally
For the doctor, there is no question of missing the party, but a successful fair relies above all on anticipation. Good organization, constant supervision of children and adaptation to weather conditions can prevent the majority of incidents.
“The most important thing is to think about three things: give people drinks often, provide breaks in the shade and stop playing in the event of strong wind or storm,” recalls Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
Because if fairs remain above all moments of celebration and sharing, a few simple precautions are enough to ensure that the memories brought home are only good memories.