There are plenty of warnings and tips about not leaving children or dogs in hot cars in the summer, but there is another common mistake that could potentially put your baby at risk. I have innocently been guilty of myself and never realized the danger.
Researchers found that a stroller left covered in a temperature of 71 degrees rose to 93 degrees in just 30 minutes with even a very thin cover. After an hour, it rose close to 100 degrees. This is significant because young children are especially at risk for overheating or heatstroke and with the child covered, you might not notice any symptoms until too late.
What can you do to avoid overheating in babies?
- NEVER cover your stroller or infant seat with a cloth, no matter how thin.
- Dress your baby in lightweight, loose clothing.
- If the temperature is especially hot, keep your baby inside if possible.
- If your home is hot and you don't have air conditioning, go to the mall or public library to escape the heat.
- When outside, keep your baby in the shade.
- Be sure to give extra fluids to keep them well hydrated.
- Be sure he's staying cool on car rides and don't cover the car seat with a cloth.
Do you know the signs of overheating?
It usually starts with being unusually thirsty or tired and sweating. Older children may complain of leg or stomach cramps and/or headache. At this point, get them inside or at least into the shade and be sure to give them lots of fluids.
When should you call 911?
According to BabyCenter.com, if the symptoms progress to hot, red, dry skin, rapid pulse, lethargy, confusion, rapid shallow breathing, or vomiting, you should immediately call 911. While waiting for the ambulance, you need to get the baby's internal temperature lowered as soon as possible. Time is of the essence because they can easily slip into unconsciousness. Remove as many clothes as possible and move to a cool room. Sponge down your baby's body with a cool wet cloth or simply fan him with something like a magazine. Do not give him baby acetaminophen, it will not lower a temperature caused by heatstroke.
I had no idea that covering a stroller or infant seat with a thin cloth to shield a baby from the sun could actually cause the temperature to skyrocket. Now that I know the danger, I will never do this again!
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