Eye-opening video reveals how hot prams can get when left in the sun

Paediatrician Dr Golly warns parents of common mistakes made during a heat wave and shows why they can be deadly. 

Rejoice! Summer is here and with it comes long days at the park, beach or pool. For families with children, outdoor adventures become the go-to social activity and, as wonderful as they are, I encourage parents to stay informed on the (sometimes surprising) risks attached.

As a paediatrician, I am all too often the witness of common mistakes parents make when it comes to safeguarding their babies and children against the extreme conditions attached to this season.

Here are a few common mistakes parents make with their babies that all parents and carers need to be aware of - along with a very confronting video to show how some of them can be deadly!

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1. They don’t prepare for the harsh realities of the Aussie sun

The Australian sun is particularly harsh, and it goes without saying that the UV sting will only intensify over the summer months. If you’re spending time outside with your children make sure you load the nappy/snack bag with the right things to keep them safe in the sun.

HOT TIPS:

• Wide-brimmed hat
• Age appropriate sunscreen
• A spare muslin for shade during feeding
• SPF-tested swimwear for beach days
• Don’t forget the bug repellent!

2. They don’t realise how hot prams can get

We all know cars in warm weather can get very hot, very quickly, and under no circumstances should children be left in the car unsupervised, regardless of the weather.

But it’s often overlooked that prams can also heat up extraordinarily fast.

Even with the shade cover pulled over, babies can be sitting in prams that get to about, and in excess of, 50 degrees Celcius very quickly.

See the above video to show this in action!

HOT TIPS:

• Look for a shady spot to park your pram where possible
• Utilise your pram’s ventilation zips
• A portable fan can be helpful for air circulation on really hot days

RELATED: How to care for your baby in the summer heat

3. They underestimate the effects of dehydration

Spending lots of time outside playing is wonderful for children, as long as they are adequately protected from the sun and hydrated.

Regular water breaks are a must year round, but extra important in the summer months. Children can quickly become dehydrated and once that takes hold they are more likely to experience sunstroke or be in need of medical intervention.

HOT TIPS:

• Have plenty of water on hand at all times.
• When the kids beg for an icy pole after a day at the beach, park or pool, swap out the traditional icy-lolly for one that replenishes electrolytes.

4. They forget eczema’s no.1 enemy is heat

Children who are susceptible to eczema will classically see a spike in symptoms as we head into the warmer months.

Eczema is typically exacerbated when the skin becomes too warm. It gets itchy, red and in some cases can crack and bleed if not treated. If your child is an eczema sufferer and you’ve found a treatment plan that works for you, I implore you to stay vigilant as we come into summer.

HOT TIPS:

• Keep baths temperate
• Adjust your TOG ratings for pyjamas and sleep sacks to compliment the weather
• Underdress rather than overdress in the heat
• Remain diligent with your eczema prevention regime, keeping skin moist and itch-free is key

5. They forget blackout blinds when packing for a holiday

Many, if not most, babies require complete darkness to sleep soundly. Complete darkness is a sleep cue that is often non-negotiable, so when you turn up to your holiday rental or hotel, don’t forget your black out blinds. Your baby’s sleep (and your sanity) might depend on it!

RELATED: What you need to know about heat stroke

6. They forget to test the temperature of playground equipment

Metal slide + scorching sun exposure x bare legs = burns unit. Sounds dramatic but you wouldn’t believe the damage burning hot playground equipment can do to a child’s skin. Test first, slide second.

HOT TIP:

• Test the heat of play equipment with the inside of your wrist to see if it’s an appropriate temperature for your children’s skin. This area of your body is much more sensitive to heat than your palms and you’ll be able to assess the risk more accurately.

So while I encourage you to embrace the magic of summer with your families, remember that as a parent it’s your responsibility to plan ahead and pack smart.

By being prepared and vigilant, we can protect our babies from the harsh realities of the Australian sun, the sweltering heat of prams, the dangers of dehydration, and the exacerbation of eczema symptoms.

Originally published as Eye-opening video reveals how hot prams can get when left in the sun