How to protect children from the heat

Children should not take part in vigorous physical activity on very hot days, such as when temperatures are in excess of 30°C. Children should wear loose, light-coloured clothing to help keep cool and sunhats with wide brims and should stay in the shade as much as possible. Sunscreen should be used to protect skin and children should be provided with plenty of water.

In terms of how to manage heat indoors, they recommend that, where possible, windows should be opened as early as possible in the morning before children arrive. Windows should be closed when the outdoor air becomes warmer than the air indoors – this should help keep the heat out while allowing adequate ventilation. Indoor blinds or curtains can be closed where possible but should not block ventilation.

Oscillating mechanical fans can be used to increase air movement if temperatures are below 35°C – at temperatures above 35°C fans may not prevent heat-related illness and may worsen dehydration.

The signs of heat stress are:

• Children may seem out of character and show signs of discomfort and irritability. These signs can include those listed below for heat exhaustion and will worsen if left untreated leading to heat exhaustion and/or heatstroke

The signs of heat exhaustion include:

• a headache
• dizziness and confusion
• loss of appetite and feeling sick
• excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
• cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
• fast breathing or pulse
• a high temperature of 38°C or above
• being very thirsty
• The symptoms are often the same in adults and children, although children may become floppy and sleepy.

If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion, they need to be cooled down.

Signs of heatstroke include:

• high body temperature – a temperature of or above 40°C is a major sign of heatstroke
• red, hot skin and sweating that then suddenly stops
• fast heartbeat
• fast shallow breathing
• confusion/lack of co-ordination
• fits
• loss of consciousness

If a child is suffering from heat related illness these are the steps you should:

• Move the child to as cool a room as possible and encourage them to drink cool water (such as water from a cold tap).
• Cool the child as rapidly as possible, using whatever methods you can. For example, sponge or spray the child with cool (25 to 30°C) water – if available, place cold packs around the neck and armpits, or wrap the child in a cool, wet sheet and assist cooling with a fan.
• Dial 999 to request an ambulance if the person doesn’t respond to the above treatment within 30 minutes.