Kids 'R' Kids Knows the Importance of Safety in Extreme Heat

Online, July 27, 2012 (Newswire.com) - This has been the hottest summer in recent history - and it's not over yet. With temperatures topping the 100-degree mark for days at a time, it's important to remember safety for children. At each Kids 'R' Kids School and Academy, safety is a key issue that garners upmost attention.

According to the National Weather Service, heat is the number one weather-related cause of death in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. There are several heat disorder symptoms to be aware of in these extreme conditions, including sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The effects of heat can be more severe with children because their bodies warm at faster rates than adults.

Most Kids 'R' Kids Schools and Academies are equipped with a splash pad that contributes to outside playtime for the students. The children are allowed time in the water area on a schedule, so each age group can have a chance to be in the water. The students are very closely monitored at all times, especially while playing in the water. An attractive feature of the splash pad is the zero depth of standing water.

"If we didn't have a splash pad at our location, we'd have to limit the amount of outside play time to under 20 minutes," said Frank Bennett, a Kids 'R' Kids owner in Marietta, Ga. "Fortunately even the toddlers, who are most susceptible to heat disorders, can play in the water area. They really enjoy running through the "misting rains" and the anticipation of the water filling the "super splasher" really excites them."

Another important aspect to consider with children is sunscreen application. Students at Kids 'R' Kids Schools and Academies are covered with sunscreen 20 minutes before heading out to play on the splash pads. Parents are required to give their permission when students enroll at Kids 'R' Kids, giving teachers freedom to prepare children for the outdoor activities. Parents bring their own sunscreen to prevent allergies.

About Kids 'R' Kids
Headquartered in the North Atlanta suburb of Duluth, Ga., Kids 'R' Kids Schools and Academies ® provide a secure, nurturing and educational environment for children (ages 6 weeks - 12 years) to bloom into responsible, considerate and contributing members of society. With over 160 locations in 15 states, Kids 'R' Kids International® is a family owned and operated organization that ranks in the top 10 nationwide for franchised early childhood education centers. http://www.kidsrkids.com/