People across the UK are preparing for record-breaking heat as temperatures of 40°C have been forecast for the coming days. It is going to be so hot, in fact, that the Met Office has issued the first ever Red warning for the exceptional heat.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Paul Gundersen explained that there is a 50% chance we could see temperatures top 40°C and 80% we will see a new maximum temperature reached.
‘Therefore, it is important people plan for the heat and consider changing their routines. This level of heat can have adverse health effects,’ Gundersen said.
The government has released guidance, which was updated on July 15th, on how to look after children and those in early years setting during a heatwave.
How to protect children indoors
- Open windows early in the morning to allowed heat stored overnight to escape the building.
- Close windows until they are almost shut when the air outside becomes hotter than the air inside.
- Keep usage of electric lighting to a minimum.
- Fans are useful if the temperature is below 35°C. If it is hotter than this fans are less effective and actually may worsen dehydration.
- Schools should consider rearranging start and finish times to avoid teaching during the hottest conditions.
- Pupils should be encouraged to stay hydrated throughout the school day.
How to protect children outdoors
- Children should not take part in ‘vigorous’ physical activity when temperatures exceed 30°C.
- Children should be encouraged to remain in the shade as much as possible to reduce sunlight exposure.
- Loose, light-coloured clothing should be allowed to keep children cool.
- Sun hats, particularly those with wide brims, should be encouraged.
- Children should be provided with lots of cold water and encouraged to drink more than usual.
- Sunscreen must be worn to protect children’s skin from the sun.
Symptoms of heat-related issues
Symptoms of heat exhaustion
Although symptoms may vary, they tend to include one or more of the following:
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Hot, red and dry skin
- Confusion
Symptoms of heat stroke
- High body temperature
- Red, hot skin and sweating that then suddenly stops
- Fast heartbeat
- Fast shallow breathing
- Confusion/lack of co-ordination
- Fits
- Loss of consciousness
If this occurs, move the child to a cool room and encourage them to drink cold water. Cool them down as quickly as possible, and dial 999 if the person does not respond to these actions within 30 minutes.
Gov.uk states: ‘If a child loses consciousness, or has a fit, place the child in the recovery position, call 999 immediately and follow the steps above until medical assistance arrives.’
Read next: What You Might Not Know About Sun Safety: How to Protect Yourself This Summer