How to keep your children and pets safe in a heatwave – everything you need to know

Britain continues to swelter in the midst of a record-breaking summer, with a fourth heatwave of the summer expected after the weekend when temperatures rise again.

Hot, dry weather is expected to return to much of England and east Wales following long-awaited rainfall this weekend; The BBC Weather warning shows temperatures could reach 35C.

This follows a summer of scorching temperatures; Records were broken in June when a sweltering 37.7 degrees was recorded at Strumpshaw Hill, Lingwood.

When temperatures exceed thresholds in the region for three consecutive days, hot weather is classified as a heat wave.

How can I sleep in hot weather?

Sleeping during a heatwave can seem like an impossible task, especially when you don’t have access to air conditioning; But there are steps you can take to get a good night’s sleep.

Julie Gooderick, an “extreme environments” expert from the University of Brighton, says it’s important to adjust your environment before going to sleep.

He says the ideal room temperature for sleeping is around 18-21 degrees and recommends using a fan, opening windows at night and keeping curtains closed during the day to prevent your bedroom from overheating.

He also recommends using a thin sheet instead of your regular duvet, avoiding napping during the day, and cooling your body as much as possible; This can be done by using cooling pads, a cold shower, or even putting your pajamas in the freezer a few hours before bed.

How can I prevent heatstroke?

Extremely hot weather poses the risk of conditions such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion, which can sometimes be fatal. The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) witnesses excess deaths every year during periods of extremely hot weather.

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and try to avoid the sun (and physical exertion outdoors) between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest.

The UKHSA advises people to walk in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly, wear a wide-brimmed hat in the heat and make sure fridges and freezers are working properly.

How can I help someone experiencing heat exhaustion?

Some people are more vulnerable than others in the heat, especially those aged 75 and over, those with serious health problems, and those who cannot keep cool.

Be sure to check on those living alone and be aware of heat exhaustion symptoms; these may include dizziness and confusion, headache, and high fever.

If you notice someone showing signs of heat exhaustion, they need to be sedated; Make sure he drinks enough water, lay him down and move him to a cold place if possible.

How can I keep my baby cool in hot weather?

It is important to prevent babies from dehydration and excessive exposure to sunlight; Regularly apply sunscreen with a protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and keep their face cool with a wide-brimmed sun hat.

The NHS says babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight, and older babies should be kept out of the sun as much as possible.

Rosey Davidson, sleep consultant and CEO of Just Chill Mama, recommends placing frozen water bottles in front of a fan for a “mini air conditioning solution” to help babies sleep when it’s hot outside.

“You can also hang a wet towel over a chair – pre-freezing this in your freezer helps – the evaporating water cools the air,” she adds. “If your baby’s room is too warm, he or she can sleep in a vest or diaper.”

Save the Children has previously published a list of tips to keep kids safe and entertained on hot days:

Staying home with the curtains closed and fans on is a great way to stay out of the heat, but being cooped up inside all day can cause children to become anxious or restless.

Save the Children recommends finding ways to have fun and encourage play indoors, like dressing up, making a shelter in the living room, or painting and drawing.

Playing in a paddling pool is also a good way to keep children cool in the garden, but the charity recommends keeping the pool in the shade when the weather is hot.

To relieve the stress your child may be feeling due to the hot weather, Save the Children is also urging parents and carers to remain calm and answer children’s questions openly and honestly.

One way to maintain a sense of order and structure is to stick to your child’s regular bath and bedtimes.

Staying cool on the go

It is very important that children are never left unsupervised in parked vehicles.

The charity warns that even in a less threatening climate, vehicles can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures and leaving your child inside could put them at risk of serious heat-related illness or death, even if the windows are cracked.

Another important tip is to make sure you choose your child’s clothes appropriately. Lightweight, light-colored and breathable fabrics like cotton are your best options.

It’s also vital to make sure your child is covered from head to toe with broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects from both UVA and UVB sun rays. This will protect your child from both heat and possible sun-related skin damage.

Hats and umbrellas can also be used to limit exposure to harmful rays.

Also, before you head out, be sure to follow local news and weather channels for health, safety and weather updates, including heat advisories, watches and advisories.

Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest

Whatever your activity level, whether you’re having a water fight in the garden or doing a puzzle in the living room, remember to drink plenty of fluids. Drink fluids before, during and after exposure to extreme heat.

Save the Children also recommends checking your baby’s diaper for concentrated or dark urine, which can be a sign of dehydration.

Hot meals should also be avoided when temperatures are particularly high.

Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled for the coolest time of the day.

Pay special attention to babies’ needs

Save the Children recommends giving your baby a cool bath before bed, keeping nightwear to a minimum, and if your baby kicks and pushes their covers through the night, consider putting them in a nappy only, with a single, well-secured sheet that won’t come loose, cover their face or get tangled up during the night.

Your baby will sleep most comfortably at a room temperature between 16C and 20C, a baby room thermometer will help you monitor the temperature of the baby’s room.

How can I keep my pets safe in the heat?

Babies don’t just struggle with the heat; Pets are also at risk from extreme temperatures.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) advises dog owners to walk their pets when it is cool in the morning or evening and to ensure they have adequate shade and water.

You can also keep them cool with pet-friendly frozen treats, and pet-friendly sunscreen is also available.

Never leave pets alone in parked cars and make sure you know the basic signs of heatstroke; Symptoms such as panting, diarrhea and restlessness may be observed in dogs and cats.

Should I exercise during a heatwave?

Avoid excessive physical activity during the hottest parts of the day, but there are ways to exercise safely during a heatwave.

Try to do this during cooler hours (early morning or evening) and make sure you’re getting enough water.

Going for a swim can be a good way to cool down, but make sure you do it in a safe, lifeguarded area.

“People will want to cool off but won’t dive into open water because it is colder than it looks,” warns the London Fire Brigade. “No matter how fit you are, there is a risk of cold water shock, which can send your body into shock.”