Keeping the Whole Family Cool During a Summer Heatwave

In the UK, we all dream of blue skies and sunny days until the UK decides to turn into the Sahara overnight!

As lovely as these long, sunny days are, extreme heat can be uncomfortable and, for some members of the family, even dangerous. We just aren’t cut out for this heat, and rising temperatures can mean extra responsibility. You have to entertain energetic little ones, check in on elderly relatives, try to stop the dog from lying dramatically across the kitchen floor in a furry puddle, or simply attempt to survive yourself. Here are some simple tips to keep everyone safe and cool.

Babies – Our Smallest Heat Warriors

Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults, so they need a little extra help when the temperature climbs.

A few things can make a huge difference to how comfortable they are:

• Dress them in lightweight cotton clothing; a short-sleeved vest would be plenty in this heat
• Keep them out of direct sunshine wherever possible
• Offer regular feeds, whether breast or bottle, as hydration is so important
• Keep bedrooms cool by closing curtains and windows during the hottest part of the day, then when the outside air is cooler than inside, reopen the windows
• Use a room thermometer if you have one; ideally babies sleep best in a room between 16–20°C. But don’t panic if it’s warmer than this – just adapt accordingly.

One thing I always remind parents is that pram covers, or a blanket over a car seat might seem like a good idea to keep your baby out of the sun, but they actually trap heat inside and can lead to overheating. A parasol or staying in the shade is a much safer option.

And if your little one is grumpy, unsettled or struggling to sleep… don’t worry. Heat affects babies just as much as it affects us!

Keeping Children Entertained

Children seem to have endless energy, even when it’s 30 degrees outside. My son had his sports day last week, and I was amazed at how they were running about, compared with their parents who were melting on the side lines!

If your child insists on being outside in the garden during the hottest part of the day, there are ways to keep cool out there:

• Water fights (the adults are allowed to join in too!)
• Sprinklers (unless there is a hosepipe ban on – check your area for details)
• Paddling pools (all water play needs to be supervised at all times)
• Water balloons
• Homemade ice lollies
• Get out a water tray and add ice cubes; this is popular with little ones
• Treasure hunts in the shade
• Picnic under a tree
  loose cotton clothes and a hat with a rim to protect from the sun

If you need to head out, try to do so early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun isn’t quite so fierce.

And don’t underestimate the power of a movie afternoon with the curtains closed and a fan on. Sometimes surviving the heat is enough of an achievement!

Adults Need Looking After Too!

We’re often so busy making sure everyone else is comfortable that we forget about ourselves.

A few reminders:

• Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Your body loses fluids faster in the heat than at other times, so keep your hydration levels high
• Wear loose, light-coloured clothing. Now is not the time to think about fashion, or try those new woollen trousers!
• Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day
• Eat lighter meals. This is the perfect time for picky bits picnics!
• Take regular breaks in the shade if you’re gardening or working outside

If you work from home, a bowl of ice in front of a fan can make a surprisingly effective DIY air conditioner.

And yes…eating ice cream absolutely counts as self-care. I’m fairly sure that’s official!

Don’t Forget Elderly Family Members

Older adults often don’t feel thirsty as quickly, making dehydration much more likely.

If you have elderly parents, grandparents or neighbours, it’s worth checking in with them during particularly hot weather.

Things that really help include:

• Encouraging regular drinks. If they aren’t keen on drinking, lollies and jellies are a great way to increase fluids
• Keeping curtains closed during the day
• Using fans where possible
• Wearing lightweight clothing
• Avoiding unnecessary trips out in the afternoon heat

Sometimes a quick phone call or popping round with an ice lolly can make all the difference.

Keeping Our Four-Legged Family Members Safe

You knew I couldn’t write this blog without talking about the dogs!

Every summer, vets see dogs suffering from heatstroke, and sadly it can become life-threatening incredibly quickly. More on this below.

Some important reminders:

• Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening. If the temperatures are high all day, it is fine to miss a walk.
• If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Also be aware that astro turf is likely to retain heat unlike real grass
• Always carry water
• Never leave a dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes. It doesn’t matter if your windows are rolled down a bit, if they have water and Classic FM is playing on the radio, they will still overheat in minutes
• Provide plenty of shade and fresh water. My dogs like a few ice cubes in their water bowl
• Cooling mats can be brilliant for dogs who struggle in the heat. There are a lot on the market so do your research well

Frozen treats can also be a huge hit. Frozen carrots, dog-safe ice lollies or stuffed frozen enrichment toys can keep them occupied while helping them to cool down.

Cats usually find their own cool spots, but they also need access to fresh water and shade.

Most Importantly…

Heatwaves don’t last forever (even if they feel like they might!).

Don’t put pressure on yourself to have endless adventures or perfectly planned summer days. Sometimes the best memories are made by eating melting ice creams in the garden, chasing each other through the sprinkler, or cuddling up with the dog in the coolest room in the house.

Take things slowly, drink plenty, look after one another and enjoy the sunshine safely.

From all of us here at Little Tiger Feet Photography, stay cool, stay hydrated and make the most of these beautiful summer days… preferably with plenty of ice cream!

Have a wonderful summer! ☀️