ChildLife urges parents to protect children from extreme heat

KARACHI: The ChildLife Foundation is urging parents and caregivers to take immediate steps to protect children from heat-related illnesses as temperatures in the country remain significantly above seasonal averages.

Several regions are experiencing prolonged periods of extreme heat, and health authorities have warned that these conditions may persist, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, particularly among children.

“Children are among the most vulnerable during heatwaves. Their bodies heat up faster than adults and are less efficient at regulating temperature, making them more susceptible to rapid fluid loss and heat-related complications,” said Dr. Irfan Habib, medical director at the ChildLife Foundation.

He added that ChildLife Foundation had recommended to families to ensure children drank plenty of water and used the Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) when needed, avoid outdoor activity during peak heat hours, especially between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., dress in light-colored and loose-fitting cotton clothing, and use fans, shade, and cool damp clothes to help regulate body temperature at homes without air conditioning.

“Families are also advised to provide light meals and water-rich fruits such as cucumbers, melons, and mangoes, and to never leave children unattended in parked vehicles.

“Parents and caregivers should remain alert for warning signs such as excessive thirst, dizziness, fatigue, headache, vomiting, confusion, rapid breathing, unusual drowsiness, reduced urine output, or high fever. Immediate medical attention should be sought if these symptoms appear,” said Dr. Irfan.

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