Hypothermia

Practicalities Health Other Possible Problems Hypothermia 

Hypothermia is not a common problem on family holidays but is an issue, particularly with babies which cannot shiver for example to warm themselves up. In addition and like most children, they lose heat faster than adults because of their shape and the lack of as much insulating fat under the skin.

It can be a particular problem if the child is in a buggy or backpack where they are not making any physical exertion which would keep them warm.

A sling is a rather better option because the child is closer to an adult and they will both help keep each other warm.

Children are not good at explaining or even recognising that they are cold so you need to watch for indications such as unusual quietness (listlessness and lethargy) and complaints about specifics such as cold hands.

The only sure confirmation of hypothermia is by taking the child's temperature (clinically anything under 35ºc but the effect on the body is to slow functioning of all body organs causing slower breathing and even loss of consciousness.

Bear in mind that there is a drop in temperature of around 10ºc per 150m above sea level so trips to higher altitudes will require warmer clothing. This is also important at night even in very hot countries (notably desert) and on any kind of boat.

Measures to Alleviate/Avoid

• Wrap up warm, a warm bath, possibly a warm drink for older children.



• Consider investing in a 'warmer [Suppliers] for a child who will be static, for example in a buggy.



• You should not allow a child to rest until you are sure the body temperature has risen and the child is breathing properly.



• It is a good idea to encourage a child to walk as much as possible.



• Warm feet are a key to a warm body so good shoes are always a good idea.