Children and babies are more susceptible to problems with the cold weather than adults.  Tune in to our 7:00 a.m. news on Tuesday morning to learn the best way to bundle an infant or child against the cold, and the warning signs for hyperthermia or overheating.

Why babies and infants are more susceptible to cold

• It is difficult for babies to produce heat by shivering
• Babies cannot regulate their body temperature as well as adults
• Babies and children can become dehydrated
• Children often don’t tell you they are cold
• Children don’t want to stop playing or come in

Signs of distress

• Pale, blistered skin
• Shivering uncontrollably
• Disoriented, sluggish
• Infant who appears flushed, restless, fussy or has difficulty breathing

Key tips for dressing for the cold

• Dress infants in one layer more than adults
• Babies need a head covered
• Dress in layers
• Avoid cotton for base layer
• Fleece is good for middle layers
• Seek waterproofing for outer layer
• Extremities (hands, feet, nose, ears, lips) are at most risk
• Keep children hydrated
• Do not dress young children in items with strings