Babies and young children are more susceptible to heat-related illness than adults. Their bodies cannot easily adapt to changing temperatures.
The younger the child, the quicker they will start to show signs of dehydration or heat stress. Sick children need special attention in hot weather, even for minor illnesses such as a cold or hayfever.
Stay hydrated and well nourished
• Ensure your child has easy access to plain water and encourage them to drink it, even before they become thirsty.
• Children 5–8 years of age should aim to drink 1 litre of water per day.
• Children 9–12 years of age—1.5 litres per day.
• Teenagers and people 13+—2 litres per day.
Babies
• 0–6 months: rely on breast milk or formula, so offer milk more frequently. Water or other drinks are not needed unless recommended by a doctor.
• 6–12 months: need food and fluids in addition to breast milk or formula, so give small amounts of cooled boiled water after or in between milk feeds.
• over 12 months: need solid foods and drinks, continue breastfeeding or formula, or give full cream milk via a cup. Offer cooled boiled water after or in between meals.
Monitor your child’s urine rate
• Babies: monitor the number of wet nappies. If your baby has fewer wet nappies than usual in 24 hours, see a doctor or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice.
• Young children: urine should be a light straw colour. Dark urine may be a sign of dehydration and indicate the need to drink. If you are concerned, see a doctor or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice.
Tips for keeping children cool
• Dress children in loose fitting, single layered, cotton clothing.
• Avoid taking your child outside between 10am–3pm.
• Use a suitable sunshade on your baby's stroller.
• Ensure children wear broad-brimmed hats and SPF 30+ to avoid sunburn.
• Children may experience nappy rash when it is hot—avoid using talcum powder, keep area clean and dry.
• Never leave your child in a hot car or give them your keys to play with.
For tips on staying safe in the heat, visit www.health.qld.gov.au/heatsafe
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