How to keep babies and children safe in heatwaves
Summary
Babies and young children are more at risk during heatwaves because their bodies do not control temperature as well as adults. To keep them safe, it is important to keep them cool, hydrated, and watch for signs of overheating like dizziness or tiredness.Key Facts
- Children's brains, especially under age five, do not fully control body temperature and thirst as adults do.
- Children sweat less and absorb heat faster due to their smaller size and higher activity levels.
- Heat exhaustion in children can cause heavy sweating, pale skin, dizziness, muscle cramps, and nausea.
- Heatstroke is a serious emergency where the body temperature can rise above 40°C, causing confusion, headache, and possible unconsciousness.
- Overheating is especially dangerous for babies and can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
- To protect children, keep them hydrated, dress them in light clothes, provide shade or cool places, and avoid letting babies sleep in hot, unventilated prams.
- Newborns should sleep in rooms kept between 16°C and 20°C with good air circulation; fans should not blow directly on the baby.
- Cooling methods like wet cloths can help babies, but they must be checked regularly to avoid overcooling.
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