New Delhi: Children are particularly susceptible to heatwaves at this time period, as summer vacations have already begun for some, and others are still in school preparing for exams. To protect your child from the heat as much as possible, watch for symptoms, and call your paediatrician if you see any develop.
Precautions To Be Taken
Hydration Is Key
Encourage your children to drink water on a regular basis and make it part of their play activity. Keep adequate water bottles with you if you’re going out. Infants who are breastfed should be breastfed more frequently on hot days, and they need not be given water separately until six months. The additional formula can be given to formula-fed infants.
Apply Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must while going outside in the summer. Children over the age of six months are advised to use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more and to reapply every two hours. Children under the age of six months should avoid the sun, especially during the heatwave. Bear in mind that while sunscreen protects your child from harmful UV rays, it does not provide protection against heat.
Dress Appropriately
Wear light-coloured, lightweight clothing with only one layer of absorbent material to allow sweat to drain as rapidly as possible. Children have a lower sweating capacity than adults.
Rest Well
Make additional rest time a priority. Heat may exhaust children (and their parents). Not only do high temperatures make people tired, but they can also make them irritable. If your child’s body temperature is too high, cool him or her down with a chilly bath or a water spray. Swimming is another excellent option to stay active and cool. Children should always be supervised while swimming or playing in water though.