Junior Bix: How to keep young runners safe in the heat

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) - The Junior Bix is set to kick off Friday, and even though temperatures aren’t as extreme as earlier this week, health experts say the risk of heat-related illness is still something to watch for.

For many young runners, the event brings excitement and competition, but that energy can sometimes lead them to ignore early warning signs of heat-related illness.

Pediatric physical therapist Katie Powers says reminding your child that their health matters more than their finish time can help them feel confident about slowing down if they need to.

“I think it’s important to stress that it’s okay not to push yourself to your maximum, especially when the weather can be so serious and the heat advisories are in place,” said Powers. ”Just having the conversation that their health is more important, not winning this race.”

Some of the early warning signs of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, changes in skin color, and unusual behavior. That could look like sudden lethargy, confusion, or a shift in mood.

If any symptoms show up during the race, families should head straight to the medical tent located in the main parking lot of the Quad-City Times building.