The sun and the heat are finally going to make an appearance, so it’s time to remind parents and pet owners about what they can do to keep everyone safe from the sun:
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22′C and sunny is no way to die
1. Protect kids and pets (and parents) from the heat:
- Aerate rooms when it’s cool (such as in the early morning and late evening)
- Prioritise activities in the early morning and/or in the shade
- Avoid sun exposure : Remember a hat, loose t-shirt and sunscreen (and even a parasol!)
- Never leave a child or animal alone in a car or elsewhere even with a window open (not for a second, never mind a few minutes). See this post on What Happens to a toddler left 15 minutes in a hot car.
2. Take time to Cool down :
- Cool down with tepid showers or a cool damp cloth (but no jumping into frigid water, the quick temperature changes are hard on the body)
- Offer water regularly (or for breastfed babies, breastfeed often, no water is necessary).
- Offer cold, light and refreshing meals and snacks (salads, fruits, etc.)
- Use lightweight clothing
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
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Protect our Kids in the Heat
3. Take special care of sick children & the elderly
- Pay special attention to children and adults with chronic, cardio-vascular, or neurological illnesses
- Watch for signs of exhaustion and fatigue as well as for dryness of the skin and lips
- If you are unsure of the health of your child, consult a doctor, especially in cases of diarrhea (risk of extreme dehydration)
Do you have “special tricks” for staying cool in the heat? Comment below.
Additional Resources on Coping in the Heat:
- Confederation Suisse: La canicule
- LLLI: Identifying Infant Dehydration in Breastfed babies
- Dr Sears: Does baby need extra water?
