As heat waves continue, caregivers are urged to take special precautions when taking infants out in strollers. While some cover strollers with blankets or thin cloths to protect children from sunlight, this practice can trap heat inside, increasing the risk of overheating.
The UK's National Health Service (NHS) advises against covering strollers or baby carriages with blankets during heat waves, as this can block ventilation and raise internal temperatures. Instead, caregivers should use dedicated canopies or umbrellas to shield children from direct sunlight and regularly check if the child is too hot.
Infants are more vulnerable to heat than adults due to their limited ability to regulate body temperature. The NHS recommends that infants under 6 months avoid direct sunlight altogether. If going outside is unavoidable, caregivers should minimize exposure to direct sunlight.
To check if a child is overheating, it is more accurate to feel the chest or the back of the neck rather than the hands or feet, which can feel cool even at normal body temperature. If a child is sweating excessively or if the back of the neck and chest feel hot and damp, it is advisable to remove a layer of clothing and move to a cooler area.
It is crucial to avoid going out during the hours of 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The NHS recommends dressing infants in light, breathable clothing and ensuring they stay well-hydrated. For infants under 6 months, avoiding direct sunlight is prioritized over using sunscreen.
Covering a stroller completely with a blanket or cloth during a heat wave can trap internal heat. Instead, caregivers should use the built-in canopy of the stroller and ensure ventilation while securing shade. Additionally, since metal frames or buckles can become hot, checking the temperature with a hand before placing the child in the stroller is advisable.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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