They can quickly lose body fluids through perspiration, which leads to dehydration.
Babies and young children should be watched carefully during hot weather. They need to drink regularly, wear light clothing and be kept cool.
Dehydration may be a risk if your child:
* Seems tired and lethargic.
* Has sunken and dark eyes.
* Is irritable or crying.
* Has fewer wet nappies than usual.
* Has hot and dry skin or looks pale.
* Has a dry and coated-looking tongue and mouth.
* Has a high temperature.
* Vomits or has diarrhoea.
* Is not eating or drinking.
If you are worried that your child has one or more of these signs, take your child to a doctor or hospital.
If your child is going outdoors, use an SPF 30+ sunscreen on your child’s face, hands and any other parts of the body which aren’t covered by clothes.
Sunscreen works better if you put it on 20 minutes before you go outside, and reapply it every two hours.
Keep them hydrated
During this heatwave it is important for parents and care-givers to remember that hot weather can be dangerous for babies and young children.
