The heat wave that has engulfed much of Europe has raised concerns about the safety of children during days of extreme temperatures. Pediatricians are urging parents to never leave children alone in vehicles, as even a short stay can have serious health consequences.
According to the president of the Italian Pediatric Association, Rino Agostiniani, children's bodies have a more limited ability to regulate body temperature and they are more at risk of dehydration and heatstroke. Furthermore, especially in the first years of life, children are not able to understand or express the first signs of danger.
Experts point out that, when the outside temperature is around 34 degrees Celsius, the temperature inside a closed car can reach up to 52 degrees in just 20 minutes, even if the vehicle is not parked in direct sunlight.
Heat stroke is considered a medical emergency and occurs when the body is unable to control its body temperature, which can exceed 41 degrees Celsius. If not treated immediately, this condition can cause serious brain damage and, in severe cases, be fatal.
To avoid risks, pediatricians recommend that children wear light clothing, avoid physical activity during the hottest hours of the day, and consume as many fluids as possible to prevent dehydration.
Doctors emphasize that preventive measures are essential during the summer and appeal to parents to never leave children alone in a vehicle, even for a few minutes.
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