As winter weather brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures across the country, it’s crucial for parents to take steps to keep their children safe from the cold. Babies and young children are especially vulnerable to the effects of extreme cold, and experts emphasize the importance of preparation and awareness. With the risk of hypothermia and frostbite, it’s essential to understand how to keep little ones warm and safe in these conditions.
“Babies are particularly at risk due to their larger body surface area relative to their size, causing them to lose heat more quickly,” says Dr. Esther Liu, Chair of Pediatrics at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center. “They also lack the ability to regulate their body temperature effectively when they’re very young.” In addition to these physiological concerns, children’s limited communication skills make it harder for them to express that they’re cold, adding an extra layer of risk.
When Should Kids Stay Inside?
While snow days can be exciting for children, the cold temperatures can pose significant risks. Parents should consider several factors before allowing their kids to play outside. Temperature alone isn’t always the best indicator — wind chill and moisture play a key role in how cold it feels and how quickly the body loses heat.
Dr. Tracy Butler, Pediatrician and Medical Director at Pediatrix Primary and Urgent Care of Colorado, recommends staying indoors when temperatures dip below -15°F, as exposure to such extreme cold can result in hypothermia and frostbite in just a few minutes.
How to Stay Safe Outdoors
If your child must go outside, layering their clothing is the best way to ensure they stay warm without overheating. Dr. Liu advises dressing children in one more layer than an adult would wear in similar conditions. Key items to include are long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats, mittens (which are easier for young children to wear than gloves), socks, boots, and a water-resistant jacket for protection against snow or rain.
During stroller walks, consider using a weather shield or rain cover to protect your child from the wind. Pediatrician Dr. Erik Johnson suggests adding blankets if needed and periodically checking your child’s extremities to ensure they aren’t too cold.
It’s also important to limit outdoor time during extreme cold and to monitor for any signs that your child is too chilly. If they begin to shiver, it’s time to bring them inside for warmth.
Cold Weather Safety in Cars
When traveling by car in cold weather, it’s important to take precautions to keep your child safe. Avoid putting your child’s winter jacket on before strapping them into the car seat, as this can prevent the harness from fitting properly and may compromise their safety. Instead, cover them with a blanket or place the jacket over them once they’re secured in the seat.
For those using space heaters, Dr. Butler advises caution. Keep space heaters away from children and make sure the heater isn’t hot to the touch. Also, it’s best to avoid plugging space heaters into extension cords due to the increased fire risk. If you use a fuel-burning space heater, ensure you have a working carbon monoxide detector nearby.
Sleep Safety Tips
The room temperature for babies should be between 68°F and 72°F. Experts recommend using sleep clothing like one-piece sleepers or wearable blankets instead of loose bedding, which can pose a suffocation risk. For safety around space heaters, always place them on a hard surface and stay present while in use, especially if you have young children or babies.
Keep an eye out for signs that your child may be too cold. These include:
Shivering (though this is usually not seen in infants under six months)
Pale or discolored skin on extremities such as hands, feet, and lips
Complaints of pain or numbness in extremities, particularly in fingers, toes, ears, or nose, which could indicate frostbite
If you suspect your child has frostbite, warm the affected area with water around 104°F and avoid rubbing the skin. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention immediately.
Stay Prepared for Cold Weather
By taking a few simple precautions, parents can keep their children safe and comfortable even during the coldest months of the year. Layering clothes, limiting outdoor time, and ensuring a safe environment both indoors and on the road can help avoid the dangers that winter weather brings. For families with babies and young children, being mindful of temperature regulation and the risks of cold weather is key to a safe winter season.
Read more:
- What Stage Of A Cold Is A Runny Nose？
- 7 Tips For Treating Stuffy Nose In Infants
- What Month Is The Highest Risk Of Sids?
