With the weather bureau predicting a fiercely hot weather, Royal Children’s Hospital paediatrician Dr Sarah McNab is encouraging families to have their heat plan ready.
Young children are more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat, and Dr McNab said those who are already unwell may be even more at risk.
“We all talk about the weather. When you talk about the weather, think about your heat plan as well?” she asked.
“Do you have air conditioning at home? What are you planning to do to keep your children cool on extreme days?’’
Help keep your children cool:
-Put sunscreen and hats on children
-Give children lots of fluids to drink – water is best for children. Babies less than six months should be breast or bottle-fed more often
-Dress children for warm weather. Babies only need a nappy and singlet on a hot day
-On extremely hot days, go to air conditioned places if possible – local libraries, community centres, indoor play areas and pools, and shopping centres.
