Children can develop heatstroke when they become too hot and dehydrated.
First Aid procedures: heatstroke affecting children
What is it?
Heatstroke is when the body is unable to cope with prolonged exposure to heat. This can be as a result of vigorous exercise in hot weather, or because of a fever.
Children can develop heatstroke when they become too hot and dehydrated.
Symptoms
- Sudden headache
- Dizziness and confusion
- Hot, flushed and dry skin
- Rapid deterioration in level of response
- High temperature (40˚C/104˚F or above)
Actions
- Reassure child
- Lie them down in a cool place and remove their outer clothing
- Put a folded towel under head
- Sponge repeatedly with cool water and allow damp skin to dry in air
- Fan to bring down temperature
Further actions
If the child loses consciousness:
- Check for a response, check for breathing and prepare for resuscitation
- Call 999
If a baby or child aged under four develops a temperature of 40°C (104°F) or higher, always consult a doctor.
The British Red Cross last medically reviewed this article in December 2009.
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