Keeping babies cool in hot weather

Keeping babies cool in hot weather

Dress light

Dress your baby in light clothing and use layers to adjust to the temperature.

Avoid direct sunlight

Babies under 6 months should not be out in direct sunlight. Use sunscreen for babies over 6 months.

Plenty of fluids

Offer breast milk or formula for babies under 6 months. They may want to feed more often, but for less time.

Use a fan

Use a fan to help circulate cool air. If using an air conditioner, don't let it get too cold.

Cool bath

Give your baby a cool bath, especially before bedtime.

Shade, don't cover

Pram should be shaded, not completely covered to allow air to circulate.

Warning signs for heatstroke

• High body temperature
• Heavy sweating or hot, dry skin
• Pale or clammy skin
• Sunken fontanelle (soft spot on baby's head)
• Sunken eyes and may not have tears when crying
• Fast heartbeat and breathing
• Headache and muscle cramps
• Dark urine and not as frequent urine (wee)
• Appearing overly sleepy or 'floppy'
• Seizure or possible loss of responsiveness

If your baby or child has symptoms of severe dehydration or heat-related illness, call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.