Babies and young children are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Their lower ability to sweat and larger body surface area compared to their body mass make them absorb heat more quickly.
This year, climate change is intensifying heat waves, creating greater risk for younger people. This raises, according to the Associated Press (AP), key questions that can cause anxiety in parents: How long should children be away from home? How do I know they are okay? What should I avoid?
During hot days, parents should watch for certain signs that could indicate their children are suffering from extreme heat.
Dr. Katherine Williamson, a pediatrician at Rady Children's Health in Orange, California, told the AP the importance of recognizing these symptoms.
“We talk about drowning and suffocation with young children, and now we're starting to include heat,” she said. “It has become more common as a possible injury.”
Vital considerations
Children sweat less than adults and have a higher metabolism, which causes them to heat up faster.
Thus, in conditions of extreme heat, its greater surface-to-mass ratio increases heat absorption.
Therefore, parents should be alert for signs of heat stroke. Lack of tears or frequent wet diapers could indicate dehydration in the baby. It is recommended to feed your baby smaller portions and more frequently to ensure he or she receives enough fluids.
Tips to keep children out of danger
To ensure the safety of children in hot weather, it is recommended:
Precautions when using the stroller
Although it is often advised to protect children from the sun, using blankets in strollers can be counterproductive as they can trap heat.
You should opt for the use of canopies designed to provide shade.
Vehicle safety standards
Leaving children inside a vehicle, even for short periods, can be deadly.
In 2025, 31 deaths from heatstroke in cars were recorded. It is recommended that caregivers follow strategies such as leaving personal items in the back seat to remember the child's presence.
Recommendations for a fresh traveler
When returning to a parked car, it is important to check that the metal parts of the car seat are not too hot.
Experts advise opening the windows to allow air circulation before turning on the air conditioning.
Dehydration in babies
In babies and young children, dehydration is often noticeable by less urination, dry mouth, fewer tears when crying, and less energy or irritability.
Mild or moderate signs
Warning signs
When to worry
If, in addition to these signs, there is persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, refusal to drink fluids, or the child is difficult to wake up, it is advisable to seek medical attention soon. In young babies, dehydration can progress rapidly, so several of these symptoms together warrant pediatric evaluation.
