Infants and preschool children are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures because their bodies are less efficient at regulating body temperature, and they depend on adults to ensure adequate fluid intake, appropriate clothing, and a safe environment. As a result, they are at increased risk of overheating, dehydration, and other heat-related health problems.

The general recommendations for protection during hot weather apply to all infants and children, with additional age-specific measures as outlined below.

Infants under 6 months of age

·         Do not expose your infant to direct sunlight. Stay in the shade and avoid going outdoors during the hottest part of the day, especially between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

·         Dress your infant in lightweight, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from natural fabrics that allow the skin to breathe. Protect exposed areas of the body from direct sunlight.

·         Protect the head, face, ears, and neck with a wide-brimmed hat, and use a sunshade or stroller canopy. Do not completely cover the stroller with a blanket or fabric, as this can restrict air circulation and increase the temperature inside the stroller.

·         Sunscreen is not recommended for infants younger than 6 months. Instead, protect them from direct sunlight by keeping them in the shade and using appropriate clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.

·         During hot weather, infants under 6 months who are exclusively breastfed should be breastfed more frequently. Breast milk provides all the fluids they need, so additional water is not necessary. For infants who are formula-fed or receive both breast milk and infant formula, particular attention should be paid to adequate fluid intake. Infant formula should always be prepared exactly according to the manufacturer's instructions and should never be diluted with extra water. If there is any concern that the infant may require additional fluids, consult a paediatrician, especially if there are signs of inadequate fluid intake, dehydration, or deterioration in the infant's health.

·         Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature in the room where the infant stays, and regularly check for signs of overheating.

·         Never leave an infant or child alone in a parked vehicle, even for a short time and even if the vehicle is parked in the shade.

Infants aged 6–12 months

All of the above recommendations for protection from heat and direct sunlight also apply to this age group.

·         In addition to staying in the shade and wearing appropriate clothing and a hat, apply a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to areas of skin that cannot be covered. Use a sunscreen specifically formulated for children's skin.

·         Apply sunscreen before going outdoors and reapply it according to the product instructions, especially after swimming or heavy sweating.

·         During hot weather, ensure regular and adequate fluid intake appropriate to the child's age and feeding pattern. Offer water frequently, and if the child is breastfed, continue breastfeeding.

·         Plan walks and outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.

Preschool children

·         Limit your child's exposure to direct sunlight, especially between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., and ensure there is adequate shade where the child plays and spends time.

·         Dress your child in lightweight, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from breathable fabrics, and protect the head with a wide-brimmed hat.

·         Apply a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to exposed skin. Reapply according to the product instructions, especially after swimming or heavy sweating.

·         Ensure your child drinks enough water throughout the day. Encourage frequent water intake and do not wait until the child feels very thirsty, especially during play and physical activity.

·         Limit vigorous physical activity during the hottest part of the day and provide frequent rest breaks in the shade or in a cool indoor environment.

·         Help your child recognise the signs of becoming too hot and encourage them to ask for water, rest, or shade as soon as needed.

·         Do not leave your child unattended in enclosed spaces that can heat up quickly, and never leave a child alone in a parked vehicle, even for a short time and even if the vehicle is parked in the shade.

Watch for signs of overheating and dehydration

Be alert if your child is unusually irritable or drowsy, has excessive thirst, a dry mouth, reduced urination, weakness, headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, rapid breathing, or an elevated body temperature.

If your child develops a very high fever, becomes confused, has altered consciousness, is extremely drowsy, experiences seizures, or their condition deteriorates rapidly, seek emergency medical attention immediately.