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.