Temperatures here in Northeast Florida are known to soar once the summer months hit. Follow these tips to protect your little ones as the mercury rises:

Hot cars are a huge danger to babies and kids. Even in average spring and summer temperatures, the inside of the car can heat up quickly. Safe Kids Northeast Florida recommends ACT to reduce deaths:

• Avoid injury and death by never leaving your child alone in the car, even for a minute.
• Create reminders by putting something the back of your car next to your child (such as a briefcase, purse or cell phone).
• Take action: If you see a child alone, call 911.

Know the signs of heatstroke — a child’s body heats up three to five times faster than an adult. Healthy Children has some great tips to keep your child safe, including keeping them hydrating, giving them a cool bath or water mist if they’re feeling hot, planning for additional rest time and more.

Water is a great way to cool off — especially here in Florida where pools, beaches and waterways abound — but dozens of children drown each year in the state. The Department of Children & Families recommends supervision, barriers, swimming lessons and emergency preparedness. Safe Kids encourages “water watchers” to monitor kids swimming.