With temperatures set to be high this coming weekend we thought we would try to share some of the risks for awareness and hints and tips about staying safe during the hot days.
NB. This is not a fully comprehensive list

Health risks from heat
Children cannot control their body temperature as efficiently as adults during hot weather because they do not sweat as much and so can be at risk of ill-health from heat. Heat- related illness can range from mild heat stress to potentially life-threatening heatstroke.
Children’s susceptibility to high temperatures varies; those under 4 years of age, who are
overweight, or who are taking certain medication may be at increased risk of adverse effects. Some children with disabilities or complex health needs may be more susceptible to high temperatures.

The main risk from heat is dehydration (not having enough water in the body). If sensible
precautions are taken children are unlikely to be adversely affected by hot conditions, however, all adults, in a position of responsibility, who care for children should look out for signs of heat stress, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Heat stress
Children suffering from heat stress may seem out of character or show signs of discomfort and irritability (including those listed below for heat exhaustion). These signs will worsen with physical activity and if left untreated can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Heat exhaustion
Symptoms of heat exhaustion vary but may include one or more of the following:
• tiredness
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• hot, red and dry skin
• confusion

Heatstroke
When the body is exposed to very high temperatures, the mechanism that controls body
temperature may stop working. Heatstroke can develop if heat stress or heat exhaustion is left untreated, but it can also occur suddenly and without warning.

Symptoms of heatstroke may include:
• high body temperature – a temperature of or above 40°C (104°F) 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

Actions to protect children suffering from heat illness
The following steps to reduce body temperature should be taken immediately:

1. Move the child to as cool a room as possible and encourage them to drink cool water (such as water from a cold tap).
2. 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.
3. Dial 999 to request an ambulance if the person doesn’t respond to the above treatment within 30 minutes.

If a child loses consciousness, or has a fit, place the child in the recovery position, call 999
immediately and follow the steps above until medical assistance arrive.

Protecting Children Outdoors
During periods of high temperature, the following steps should be taken:
• children should not take part in vigorous physical activity on very hot days, such as
when temperatures are in excess of 30°C
• encourage children playing outdoors to stay in the shade as much as possible
• children should wear loose, light-coloured clothing to help keep cool and sunhats with
wide brims to avoid sunburn
• use sunscreen (at least factor 15 with UVA protection) to protect skin if children are
outdoors for more than 20 minutes
• provide children with plenty of water (such as water from a cold tap) and encourage
them to drink more than usual when conditions are hot.