I’m a GP – here’s 6 tips to keep your baby safe in the heatwave

A HEATWAVE has swept the UK – with temperatures hitting 40.2C in some parts.

But as adults are able to regulate their temperature through hydrations and the use of fans, babies aren’t able to.

Caring for a baby is challenging, especially in the heatwave.

Sun columnist Dr Zoe Williams is no stranger to this and has also had to navigate the scorching temperatures with her little boy Lisbon.

Posting to , the mum revealed her six tips to keep baby cool and well.

1. Hydration

During the heatwave, Dr Zoe said that hydration is key – especially for babies.

She said: “For exclusively breastfed babies offer breast milk more often and for bottle fed babies you can offer a little cooled boiled water between feeds.

“For older babies who are already having solids, make water available more often and consider hydrating foods as snacks such as cucumber, watermelon and strawberries.”

2. Sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen helps to protect everyone in the heatwave and it’s important you apply it before you go outdoors to reap the protective benefits.

Dr Zoe said that sunscreen should be factor 50 minimum and have both UVA and UVB protection.

“It’s preferable to use one that is designed for babies to ensure it is free from harsh chemicals.

“Babies under 6 months should be shaded from the sun, as their skin has not yet developed the melanin which gives protection.”

3. Water spray

Another great way to keep little ones cool is to use a water spray, Dr Zoe said.

“Have a water spray to hand and spritz cool water onto them during the day to keep them cool.”

However it’s important to not use garden hoses to cool them down as water can heat up in the pipe throughout the day and cause burns.

4. Shade

While the sun beams down on every street in the UK, it might be hard to find any shade.

But where possible, Dr Zoe said you should seek out cool spots.

“Use parasols over prams when out and about and rimmed hats- if they will keep them on,” she added.

5. Keep it closed

It might be tempting to get every window and door open in the hot weather, but in temperatures like this – you’ll likely just be letting hot air in.

“Keep windows and curtains/blinds closed in the day. Only open windows once the temperature outside is cooler than inside.

“It’s good to use a fan at night but do not face it directly at baby – it can affect their breathing.

“A rotate setting is fine or otherwise face it to the side of them,” she added.

6. Ice bowel

If you’ve been lucky enough to get your hands on a fan this year then Dr Zoe said you can use it to help cool baby.

“Putting a bowl of ice or frozen bottle of water in front of the fan can help to cool the room further,” she added.