Parents are being advised to keep children out of the sun as the UK braces for a heatwave.
With temperatures predicted to hit a high of 33C (91.4F) on Tuesday, Sheffield children’s hospital says children should wear sun cream, light-coloured clothing and stick to the shade to avoid overheating.
Temperatures are forecast to stay above average throughout the weekend and next week, prompting the Met Office to issue a level 3 heat health alert for south-east England. A level 2 warning is in place for the rest of England.
In advice shared on Twitter, Sheffield children’s NHS foundation trust said carers should ensure children stay hydrated by drinking water “little and often”.
😡 The first sign that a child is overheating is when they become grumpy or complain of a headache. If this happens, get them into a shaded place that is as cool as possible. Remove any clothing you can, give them water to drink and get them to rest.
— Sheffield Children's (@SheffChildrens) July 8, 2022
“Don’t allow your children to stay in the sun for long periods – and never leave them in a car on a hot day. Resting in the shade and finding cool places is important,” the trust said.
“The first sign that a child is overheating is when they become grumpy or complain of a headache. If this happens, get them into a shaded place that is as cool as possible. Remove any clothing you can, give them water to drink and get them to rest.
“Following these simple precautions means you and your children can enjoy the sun safely.”
The British Red Cross has also issued advice on how to spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and reminded members of the public to “keep cool, stay hydrated and call 999 if their condition gets worse”.
Learn how to spot the signs of heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke, and stay safe in the #heatwave.
— British Red Cross 🧡 (@BritishRedCross) July 8, 2022
Remember to keep cool, stay hydrated and call 999 if their condition gets worse. pic.twitter.com/H3ap4TaLNF
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging people to check in on vulnerable family, friends and neighbours.
“We want everyone to enjoy the hot weather when it arrives, but also to check in on their vulnerable family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are prepared for the warm conditions ahead,” said Dr Agostinho Sousa, the head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA.
“High temperatures are predicted for a prolonged period, so make sure to follow our simple health advice to beat the heat, such as covering windows exposed to direct sunlight and making sure that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly.”
The Met Office has predicted heatwave criteria will be met in parts of southern and central England and Wales over the coming days. Conditions are expected to be cooler in the far north-west, which is likely to have some cloudy periods and patchy rain.
