Parents urged to keep children out of sun as blistering UK heatwave continues

Children should cover up in light-coloured clothing and rest in the shade.

As it is heating up here on our shores too – finally – the UK is even hotter, with temperatures expected to reach into the 30s all week, with Tuesday predicted to be the hottest day of the year so far. Due to the extreme temperatures, the Met Office has issued a level 3 health alert for southeast England, with parents being warned to keep their children indoors and out of the sun on the warmest days. In advice shared on Twitter, Sheffield children’s NHS foundation trust said carers should ensure children stay hydrated by drinking water “little and often”.

It's going to be really hot over the weekend, so here’s some advice from our Emergency Department about how to keep your children safe in a heatwave. ? pic.twitter.com/7l7Y2YaiUO

— Sheffield Children's (@SheffChildrens) July 8, 2022

“Don’t allow your children to stay in the sun for long periods – and never leave them in a car on a hot day. Resting in the shade and finding cool places is important,” the trust said.

“The first sign that a child is overheating is when they become grumpy or complain of a headache. If this happens, get them into a shaded place that is as cool as possible. Remove any clothing you can, give them water to drink and get them to rest."

They added:

“Following these simple precautions means you and your children can enjoy the sun safely.”

The British Red Cross has also issued advice on how to spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and reminded members of the public to “keep cool, stay hydrated and call 999 if their condition gets worse”.