Child Safety – Hot Weather
Babies and young children should be given extra fluids during hot weather.
They can quickly lose body fluids through perspiring, which can lead to
dehydration. They need to drink regularly, wear light clothing and be kept
cool.
Warning signs of dehydration
Dehydration may be a risk if your child:
● Has fewer wet nappies
● Is not eating or drinking
● Is sleepy
● Is irritable or crying
● Has hot and dry skin
● Has a dry mouth
● Has a body temperature near 40 degrees C
● Vomits or has diarrhoea
● Has a rise in temperature
If you notice one or more of these signs, take your child to a doctor or
hospital.
Offer frequent drinks to avoid dehydration
● Breastfeeding – if you are breastfeeding, feed
your baby more often. Have plenty of water / fluids yourself including a
cool drink at every feed.
● Bottle feeding – if you are bottle feeding, offer
extra cool boiled water after the bottle.
● Small children – give young children regular drinks
during the day. Water is best.
Sick children need special care
● Sick children need special attention in hot weather.
● Even minor illnesses, such as colds or gastro,
need special care in hot weather.
● Theses illnesses often lead to a slight rise in
temperature by themselves, but in hot weather, this could lead to a risk
of dehydration.
● Frequent breastfeeding and extra drinks are very
important if your baby is ill.
Keep children cool
If is often better to stay indoors on a hot day. If you must go outside:
● Dress your baby in a nappy and singlet with a
light muslin wrap if necessary to shade.
Hat if outdoors.
● Use baby sunscreen and reapply it regularly during
the day (SPF 15 is best).
● Take plenty of drinks for your child.
● Keep in the shade.
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