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Hot weather is fabulous, a wonderful trip to the beach or enjoying time in the garden! However, when temperatures skyrocket it can become dangerous. Save The Children have compiled 10 heat safety tips for keeping children safe in a heatwave.
1. Light clothing, heavy suncream
Choose lightweight, light-coloured, and breathable fabrics (such as cotton), and use lots of suncream to protect you and your child from the heat and potential sunburn.
2. Drink lots of fluids
Remember to drink plenty of liquids, regardless of your activity level. Check your baby’s nappy for concentrated (dark in color) urine, which can indicate dehydration.
3. Get lots of rest
Try and limit activities. Make sure that children get lots of rest when they are active. NHS advises to “try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm”.
4. Keep children entertained
Children may become anxious or restless from being kept indoors. Plan for indoor activities and games.
5. Reassure children
Children may be stressed by the heat. Remember that children take their cues from their parents and caregivers, so try to keep calm and answer their questions openly and honestly. Also stick to regular bath and sleep times for your child.
6. House safety/cooling tips
During the day, keep rooms cool by closing blinds/curtains, especially in rooms facing the sun. Using a fan to circulate air in the room is beneficial.Review your child’s school sun policy.
7. Never leave children unsupervised in parked cars
Even in less threatening temperatures, vehicles can rapidly heat up to dangerous temperatures. A child left inside a car is at risk of severe heat-related illness or death, even if the windows are cracked open.
8. Stay informed
Listen to local news and weather channels for health, safety and weather-related updates.
9. Know how to identify heat-related illnesses
Look for signs of heat-related illnesses/conditions such as heat stroke, exhaustion, cramps, and severe sunburn. If children show these symptoms, seek medical assistance. Refer to the NHS website for a complete list, and how to remedy them.
10. Read the NHS guidance for babies
The NHS advises giving your baby a cool bath before bedtime and keeping nightwear to a minimum. Your baby will sleep most comfortably at room temperature between 16C and 20C, a nursery thermometer will help you monitor the temperature of the baby’s room.