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Advice for those looking after children

Health risks from heat

Children cannot control their body temperature as easily as adults because they do not sweat as much. This means that they may get ill when the weather is hot.

Heat related illness can range from mild heat stress to potentially life-threatening heatstroke.

The main risk from heat is dehydration (not having enough water in the body).

If sensible precautions are taken children are unlikely to be affected by hot weather but, parents, teachers, assistants, school nurses and other child carers should look out for signs of heat stress, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

 

Heat stress

Children with heat stress may not seem themselves or be uncomfortable and irritable. These signs will worsen with physical activity and can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

 

Who is likely to be most affected?

  • Children aged under four are at higher risk of heat related problems.
  • Children who are overweight or who are taking medication, or have disabilities or other health problems, may have more problems in the heat.
  • The school nurse, community health practitioner, family health visitor or the child’s specialist health professional may be able to advise on the needs of the individual child. 
  • Support staff should be aware of the risks and how to deal with them.

 

Outdoors

  • On very hot days (e.g. temperatures above 30°C) children should not be racing about.
  • Children playing outdoors should stay in the shade.
  • Loose, light-coloured clothing will help children keep cool.
  • Hats with wide brims help prevent sunburn.
  • Thin clothing or suncream protect skin. Use a sunscreen especially for babies and children.
  • Children should be given plenty of cool water and encouraged to drink more than usual.

 

Indoors

  • Windows should only be opened during the early morning, evening, and ideally overnight.
  • Check insurance and the need for security if windows are left open overnight.
  • Windows should be left ajar during the day, this will keep the room cool and let it air.
  • Use outdoor sun covers or awnings, or indoor blinds, to shade the windows.
  • Switch lights off whenever possible.
  • Switch off electrical equipment, including computers, monitors and printers that are not being used.