South Africa’s summer heat is a serious threat to children’s health, and experts are urging parents and caregivers to be extra vigilant.
Cape Town, South Africa (13 February 2025) – If there is one thing for certain, it is that summer in South Africa will be the heat!
With February marking the hottest month, ChildSafe South Africa, in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, is raising awareness about the dangers of heat-related illnesses like heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
The average temperature across the planet has been increasing steadily, making it more important than ever to remember that children are particularly vulnerable to heat-related issues.
Dr Shirani Naidoo, an emergency specialist at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH), shares insights on why children are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses, the signs and symptoms to watch for, and how to prevent heatstroke.
Why Are Children More Susceptible to Heatstroke or Heat Exhaustion?
Children are more likely to suffer from heatstroke or heat exhaustion because their bodies produce more heat during physical activity than adults, and their cooling mechanisms, such as sweating, are less developed. Their higher body surface area to weight ratio increases their vulnerability to heatstroke, especially in hot and humid conditions. Children also tend to become so absorbed in play that they don’t notice when they’re overheating or need to rest.
For this reason, parents and caregivers need to remind children to drink water and take breaks in shaded, cool areas—or do so on their behalf—since kids are often too focused on having fun to pay attention to these needs.
The Signs and Symptoms of Heatstroke or Heat Exhaustion
- High body temperature (40°C)
- Red, hot, and dry skin (indicating reduced sweating)
- Rapid pulse or breathing
- Fatigue or muscle cramps
- Dizziness or confusion
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Unconsciousness in extreme cases
How to Prevent Heatstroke
The World Health Organization (WHO) provides guidelines on how we can prevent heatstroke or heat exhaustion in children and infants:
- Never leave children or animals in parked vehicles for any amount of time, as temperatures can quickly become dangerously high.
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak hours, seeking shade or staying indoors instead. Shade can reduce how hot you feel by more than 10°C.
- Do not cover an infant stroller or pram with dry fabric – this makes the temperature inside the carriage even hotter. Instead, use a wet, thin cloth which is kept damp to lower the temperature. Combine with a portable fan for an even greater cooling effect.
- Dress children in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers their skin, and use wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect them from the sun’s rays.
- Keep children hydrated with plenty of cool water and allow infants to breastfeed on demand.
- Any associated diarrhoea and or vomiting will cause a quicker and more severe deterioration and will need a higher fluid intake to stay safe.
ChildSafe South Africa Executive Director Zaitoon Rabaney says supervision is key.
“Keeping a close eye on children and staying vigilant for signs of heatstroke are crucial steps in ensuring children’s safety. Early detection and swift action can make all the difference in preventing severe outcomes.
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“By collectively staying informed and prepared, we can safeguard our children from heat-related illnesses and ensure they stay safe and healthy during the hottest months of the year.”
Immediate Actions for Heat Exhaustion
If a child begins to show signs of heat exhaustion (a precursor to heatstroke), prompt action can prevent escalation. Parents should move them to a cool place, encourage them to drink water, and cool their bodies with damp cloths, a fan or by removing unnecessary clothing and shoes.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it may indicate the onset of heatstroke. In such cases, seek immediate medical help by calling emergency services or heading to the closest health facility.
Sources: Supplied
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