Heat exhaustion and heatstroke

When children are out in hot, humid conditions for extended periods of time, they are at risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke (also known as sunstroke).

A child's ability to regulate heat is not as efficient as adults, as the body does not cool itself as well through sweat. When kids are having fun out in the sun, they often don’t want to miss out on activities, so they are unlikely to take a break for water or shade.

It is important for parents and carers to understand the conditions and recommend regular breaks. 

Symptoms of exhaustion in children

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response when a child has lost excessive water and salt through the skin in the form of sweat.

Symptoms include: 

  • heavy sweating (cool and moist skin)
  • pale skin
  • fast and weak pulse rate
  • breathing fast and shallow
  • muscle weakness or cramps
  • tiredness
  • dizziness
  • headache
  • nausea or vomiting
  • fainting.

Responding to heat exhaustion in children 

If you suspect a child is experiencing heat exhaustion, you should:

  • limit exposure to the elements by resting the child in a cool place indoors or under shade
  • cool the child down by removing excess clothing, running a cool bath or shower or placing cool packs under the armpits, groin or neck
  • provide the child with cool water or an oral rehydration drink (electrolyte drink).

If a child experiencing heat exhaustion is not treated promptly, it may progress to heat stroke. Action should be taken to minimise the risk of heat stroke.

Symptoms of heatstroke in children

Heat stroke occurs when a child’s temperature is above 40.5°C. Symptoms include: 

  • a sudden rise in body temperature
  • red, hot and dry skin (sweating has stopped)
  • dry swollen tongue
  • rapid pulse
  • rapid shallow breathing
  • intense thirst
  • headache
  • nausea or vomiting
  • dizziness
  • confusion, poor coordination or slurred speech
  • aggressive or bizarre behaviour
  • loss of consciousness
  • seizures or coma.

It is important to provide immediate first aid to lower the child’s body temperature as soon as possible, as it can be life-threatening if neglected. 

Responding to heatstroke in children 

If you suspect a child is experiencing heatstroke you should:

  • call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance
  • do not give a child with heat stroke aspirin or paracetamol as this could be more harmful.

If the child is unconscious:

  • lay them on their side in the recovery position and check they can breathe properly
  • perform CPR if needed.

If the child is conscious: 

  • move them to a cool area indoors or under shade and keep them still
  • give them small sips of fluid
  • bring their temperature down using any method available such as:
    • sponge with cool water
    • a cool shower
    • spray with cool water from a garden hose
    • soak clothes with cool water
    • place cool packs under the armpits, groin or neck.