I’m a first aider – here’s 4 hacks to keep your baby cool in the hot weather
BRITS are set to enjoy another hot weekend over the coming days – with temperatures due to reach 27C in parts of the country.
With the UK’s summer starting with a bang, parents should be aware of how to keep their babies and kids safe in the warm weather, including at night time.
Just like adults, babies and young children can have a hard time sleeping when the temperature is so hot.
Babies aren’t even able to regulate their own body temperature.
Australian first aiders from Tiny Hearts Education, have suggested several things parents can do to keep their baby cool during the hot weather.
1. No direct sunlight
Parents should keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight at all times – especially between 10am-2pm when the rays are strongest, the fist aiders said.
The NHS says you should put suncream on their skin and make sure they are wearing a wide-brim hat at all times, as a sunburnt baby is the worst outcome.
2. Light clothing
Parents should also dress babies in light clothing, the experts explain in a video posted to Instagram.
This is because light coloured clothing reflects most of the visible light which, meaning it absorbs less heat.
Lucy Shrimpton, a sleep expert who goes by “The Sleep Nanny“, previously told The Sun that when indoors – away from harmful rays – you must also dress your baby appropriately.
If the room is very hot, for example over 25 degrees, a nappy and a thin vest may suffice.
If the temperature is between 20-23 degrees, a short baby grow or shorts and T-shirt or a nappy and a one tog sleep sack should be okay.
3. Drink more
“Encourage them to drink more fluids,” they add.
Both babies and adults are more likely to sweat more what it’s hot.
Drinking water helps replenish the fluids lost by excessive sweating.
If a baby – or adult – fails to get enough water, they may become dehydrated, and the combination of hot temperatures and dehydration can lead to serious heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke.
4. Run a cool bath
Is there anything nicer than a cold bath on a hot day?
The parenting gurus suggest running a cold bath for your little one to splash around in and cool off.
However, make sure it’s not too cool and keep it short so they don’t get cold!