Heatwave and baby: keys for effective preparation

Categories: Advice

The arrival of summer often means hot and sunny days. However, these high temperatures can pose health risks for your baby. Especially since we are experiencing more and more heatwaves. In this article, we will examine the effects of heatwaves on babies and give you advice on how to protect your child during these periods of extreme heat.

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What is a heatwave?

A heatwave is a period of intense heat that can last several days or even weeks. It is characterized by very high temperatures, often accompanied by high humidity. Babies are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of heat, as their body temperature regulation system is not yet fully developed. It is therefore essential to take measures to protect your baby during these periods.

The effects of a heatwave on babies

Babies are more likely to suffer from dehydration and heat stroke during a heatwave. Their ability to regulate their body temperature is limited, making it difficult to dissipate excessive heat. This can lead to health problems such as skin rashes, fever, irritability, and even more serious issues like seizures.

How to protect your baby during a heatwave?

There are several measures you can take to protect your baby during a heatwave:

Hydration, the key word during a heatwave

Babies are particularly vulnerable during heatwaves, especially due to their inability to properly regulate their body temperature.

Thus, it is crucial to maintain a good level of hydration in young children to avoid the risks of dehydration and heat stroke. 

  • Give your baby regular drinks

To ensure optimal hydration, don't hesitate to regularly offer water to your baby, even if they don't seem thirsty. Indeed, as the sensation of thirst is not well developed in infants, they may not express their need for water. Moreover, water loss is greater during a heatwave due to excessive sweating.

  • Adapting your child's diet

In addition to water, remember to adapt your baby's diet by favoring foods rich in water. Fresh fruits and vegetables, for example, contribute to your child's daily water intake. For younger ones, consider adjusting the consistency of foods by adding a little water to purees.

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Protect baby from hot hours and sun

During a heatwave, it is crucial to protect your baby from the dangers associated with sun and high temperatures. 

  • Avoiding outings during the hottest hours

Prefer outings early in the day or in the evening, when temperatures are milder. If you absolutely must go out with your baby during hot hours, be sure to protect them effectively against the sun and favor shaded areas.

  • Equip yourself with appropriate accessories

When going for walks, don't forget to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect your infant from UV rays. In the car, also remember to install sun shades on the windows to avoid direct sun exposure.

Managing the temperature of baby's environment

To ensure optimal comfort for your child during a heatwave, it is essential to maintain a pleasant ambient temperature in their environment.

  • Maintaining an acceptable indoor temperature

Throughout the day, take care to close shutters and curtains to limit heat entry into the house. Conversely, ventilate early in the morning and late in the evening when outdoor temperatures are cooler.

  • Monitoring the room temperature

The ideal temperature for a baby's room is around 64 to 68°F (18 to 20°C). During a heatwave, it can be difficult to maintain this temperature, but try to keep it below 75°F (24°C) as much as possible. You can use a fan or an air conditioner set to a moderate temperature to achieve this.

  • Choosing appropriate activities

During periods of intense heat, it's important to limit outdoor activities with your baby. Instead, opt for indoor games in a cool and well-ventilated environment. You can also offer sensory activities such as playing with lukewarm water in an inflatable pool suitable for babies, or using toys that can be placed in the refrigerator to cool them down.

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Adapting your baby's clothing

During periods of intense heat, it's important that your child can regulate their body temperature effectively. Clothing thus plays a major role in this process.

  • Choosing light and breathable clothing

Opt for outfits made of cotton, linen, or other natural materials that promote air circulation and allow your baby to better tolerate the heat. Avoid synthetic materials as much as possible, as they tend to trap sweat and increase the sensation of heat.

  • Adjusting the amount of clothing according to temperature

Don't hesitate to adjust your baby's outfit according to temperature variations. For example, if the room they're in is cool, add an extra layer of clothing. Conversely, if the room is particularly warm, leave them just in a diaper.

To prepare your baby to face a heatwave, ensure optimal hydration, protect them from hot hours and sun, adapt their clothing, and manage the temperature of their environment as best as possible. These few tips will allow you to calmly get through this delicate period with your infant.