As summer temperatures rise, many parents cover strollers with blankets or swaddles to shield their infants from the sun. However, Ukrainian pediatrician Dariia Vlasenko warns that this well-meaning practice can be dangerous for babies’ health.
Health Risks of Covering Strollers
Dr. Vlasenko explains that covering a stroller with fabric creates several health hazards:
Rapid Overheating: A blanket traps hot air inside, quickly raising the stroller’s temperature, even in moderate heat. Babies are unable to regulate their body temperature efficiently, increasing the risk of overheating or heatstroke.
Poor Air Circulation: A blanket blocks airflow, causing the temperature inside the stroller to rise. This leads to babies breathing hot, stagnant air.
Increased UV Radiation: Some fabrics allow sunlight to pass through, potentially intensifying its harmful effects on the baby’s skin.
Serious Health Risks: In extreme cases, overheating can lead to unconsciousness, dehydration, seizures, or even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Tips for Safe Stroller Walks
To keep babies safe during walks in the heat, Dr. Vlasenko recommends the following:
Use a Canopy or Parasol: These provide shade without blocking airflow, helping to maintain ventilation inside the stroller.
Try a Damp Cloth and Fan: A damp muslin cloth, paired with a fan, can lower the temperature inside the stroller by up to 4.7°C, according to studies.
Monitor the Baby: Regularly check for signs of overheating, such as red skin, sweating, lethargy, or irritability.
Avoid Peak Heat: Walk during the cooler parts of the day, such as in the morning or evening.
Dr. Vlasenko also encourages parents to speak up if they see others covering strollers in this way, as many are unaware of the potential risks.
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