"Danger! Dehydration”
FOR AIR WEEK OF July 11, 2005

Texas temperatures are on the rise. And hotter days mean it's important to get your kids enough water to drink.

Hi, I’m Dr. John Hellerstedt with the Children’s Health Minute, presented by this station and TexCare-- connecting families with CHIP and Children’s Medicaid.

Dehydration can be a serious problem in children, but one that can be prevented. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water. An active child loses water through sweat and breathing hard.

If your child participates in outdoor sports activities, make sure they take water breaks every fifteen minutes. It's also a good idea to get them in the habit of bringing water along with them to practice or games.

Finally, DO NOT use soda or juice as substitutes for water. Remember: water is your child's best refreshment when the weather is hot.