Looking after children and those in early year settings during the heatwave

Teachers and professionals are being urged to look out for children who are susceptible to ill-health from heat as temperatures continue to soar.

Children, particularly those under 4 years of age, who are overweight or are taking certain medication may be at increased risk of adverse effects. Some children with disabilities or complex health needs may also be more susceptible to high temperatures.

Children cannot control their body temperature as efficiently as adults during hot weather because they do not sweat as much and so can be at risk of ill-health from heat. Heat-related illness can range from mild heat stress to potentially life-threatening heatstroke. The main risk is from heat is dehydration by not having enough water in the body.

Councillor Tamoor Tariq, cabinet member for adult care, health and wellbeing said: “I urge anyone who is in contact with children to know who is most at risk from heat, know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to prevent them; know what to do to help someone suffering from heat-related illness and when to call 999.”

In the hottest weather, even healthy people can be affected.

• It’s important we all know how to stay safe: Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) and how to keep settings including schools safe Beat the heat: keep cool at home checklist - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
• Particularly be aware of the symptoms of heatstroke: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heat-exhaustion-heatstroke/
• Further information and tips can be found on the council website: https://www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=13738

Councillor Lucy Smith, cabinet member for children and young people added: “If sensible precautions are taken children are unlikely to be adversely affected by hot conditions, however, teachers, assistants, school nurses and all child carers should look out for signs of heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”