British Red Cross has issued a warning to all parents over the risk of deadly heat stroke during the heatwave.
British Red Cross has issued a warning to all parents over the risk of deadly heat stroke during the heatwave. While hot weather brings ice cream in the sunshine and long evenings in the park, heatwaves can also be very dangerous - especially for the most vulnerable people, like little ones.
Temperatures are reaching the high twenties and expected to climb to 30C, which increases the risk of heat stroke - a condition that needs to be treated with emergency and could be fatal.
Symptoms of heatstroke include headaches; intense thirst; nausea; sleepiness; hot, red and dry skin; sudden rise in temperature; aggression, confusion, convulsions or loss of consciousness.
Speaking to the Sun, Joe Mulligan, head of first aid education at the British Red Cross, warned that the hot weather can be extremely dangerous, but there are steps families can take to stay safe.
He said: 'Whether a summer heatwave fills you with excitement or concerns, overheating in this hot weather can be dangerous.
'Evidence shows that the number of people visiting their GP for heat-related illness can double during a heatwave.
Joe highlights that drinking fluids is one of the key things you should be doing while it's hot, and make sure your children are doing the same - especially if they're playing outside.
How to spot if your baby is dehydrated
'Many heat-related illnesses occur because someone has been in the heat too long, or has over exerted without drinking enough fluid.
'During this period of soaring temperatures everyone can take simple steps to stay safe', he said.
But if staying outside and enjoying the heat is one of your favourite things to do during summer, we have bad news - experts warn that you might actually want to stay inside when temperatures soar.
'Avoiding going out in the sun at the hottest time of the day, drinking plenty of water and even wearing a hat on hot days can all make a real difference', Joe added.
How to keep children safe during the heatwave
- Give them plenty of fluids, preferably water - Dress them appropriately for the heat - they should wear a hat when out - Avoid intense exercise - Avoid closed spaces - Go indoors if it's too hot outside
