As the summer months approach, we are looking forward to spending more time outdoors enjoying the sunshine. However, with the fun of warm weather comes the responsibility of keeping children safe from the heat. Hot weather can pose risks for young children, including dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion. By preparing ahead of time and following our key safety tips, you can ensure your child stays healthy and comfortable while enjoying their summer fun.
One of the biggest risks during hot weather is dehydration. Children can lose fluids quickly through sweat, so it’s important to keep them hydrated throughout the day. Encourage your child to drink water regularly, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Offer water every 20-30 minutes, especially during outdoor activities. Avoid sugary drinks as they can contribute to dehydration. Make sure to pack water bottles when heading out for a day in the sun and remind your children to drink up frequently.
During heat do not completely cover your child’s pram with a muslin blanket. Whilst you may think this is a great way to protect your child from the sun, it also traps heat increasing temperatures for your baby. Ensure a breeze can come through the blanket or use a large sun mesh shield that has been specifically designed for pram use.
Choosing the right clothing can help keep your child cool and protect them from the sun’s harmful rays. Dress your child in lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable fabrics like cotton. Light-coloured clothing is also ideal, as it reflects the sun rather than absorbing heat. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat to protect their face, neck, and ears from the sun. Sunglasses with UV protection are another great addition to your child’s summer outfit, helping to shield their eyes from the sun.
Sunburns can happen quickly, especially to young, sensitive skin. Proper sun protection is essential when children are playing outside. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if your child is swimming or sweating. Make sure to cover all exposed areas, including the back of the neck, ears, and the tops of feet. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen even on cloudy days, as UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds.
While children love to run around and play in the sun, it’s important to provide them with shaded areas to cool down. Perhaps set up an umbrella, canopy, or pop-up tent in your backyard or at the beach to create a shaded area where children can take breaks from the sun. When heading to parks or playgrounds, choose spots with natural shade from trees or covered play areas. Encouraging your child to take frequent breaks in the shade will help prevent overheating and provide a much-needed break from direct sun exposure.
The sun is strongest during the middle of the day, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM. During these hours, the risk of heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion and heatstroke, is higher. Try to plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. If your child does play outside during peak hours, make sure they take frequent breaks indoors or in shaded areas, and keep a close eye on their energy levels. Indoor activities like arts and crafts, reading, or playing games can provide a fun alternative during the hottest parts of the day.
It’s important to recognise the signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, as these conditions can escalate quickly if not addressed. Watch for symptoms like excessive sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea, or muscle cramps. If your child shows signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cooler area, give them water to drink, and help them cool down with a wet cloth or fan. If symptoms worsen or your child becomes confused or lethargic, seek medical attention immediately. Teaching children about the importance of cooling off and staying hydrated can also help them recognise when they need to take a break.
Playing in water is a great way for children to cool off, but water safety should always be a top priority. Whether it’s a pool, splash pad, or beach, always supervise children closely when they’re in or near water. Make sure they take regular breaks from swimming to hydrate and rest. Also, remind them that the sun can be just as intense near water, so reapply sunscreen often. For added safety, consider investing in UV-protective swimwear and rash guards, which offer extra protection while your child is in the water.
Summer is a great time for children to explore the outdoors, but hot weather brings its own set of challenges. With these tips, your family can enjoy all the fun and adventure of the summer season while staying cool and protected from the heat!
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