How to handle heatstroke
Nisha Mal tells you how to keep kids safe when the temperatures soar
AS the hot weather continues most of us will be outside enjoying the sunshine.
But if you have a young child or a baby the heat can be dangerous as they are more vulnerable to dehydration and sunstroke.
Heatstroke occurs when the body overheats and is usually a result of prolonged exposure to high temperatures. If the condition becomes serious it can require medical treatment.
What are the symptoms of heatstroke?
Parental advice website babycentre.com explains the signs: A temperature of 103 °F (39.4 °C) or higher — but no sweating; Hot, red, dry skin; Rapid pulse; Restlessness; Confusion; Dizziness; Headache (which may make them irritable); Vomiting; Rapid, shallow breathing; Lethargy (your baby might not respond as strongly as usual when you call their name or tickle their skin, for example), and Unconsciousness.
What do I do if my baby or child has heatstroke?
According to the NHS you need to reduce the temperature of your child’s body.
Undress them and lay them down in a cool place. If you’re outside then find some shade and rest your child down, but if possible find somewhere cool indoors.
Get them to drink plenty of water. Lie them down and raise their feet slightly. You can cool down your child by sponging their body with a washcloth dipped in cold water.
Every few minutes, check that their breathing and pulse is steady. Your child should start to cool down and feel better within 30 minutes but if this does not happen call for an ambulance.
Call 999 if:
Not better after 30 minutes; Feel hot and dry; Has a temperature of 40C or above; Has rapid or shortness of breath; Is confused; Has a fit (seizure); Loses consciousness, or Is unresponsive.
How can I prevent my baby or child getting heatstroke?
Dress your child or baby in loose-fitting, lightweight clothes to prevent them from getting heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
If they are outside, try and keep them in the shade and if you’re in the car try and keep an eye on them.
Make sure they are drinking enough water and if the weather is very hot keep them indoors.
The NHS says: “If you’re travelling to a hot country, be particularly careful for at least the first few days, until you get used to the temperature.”