When should I call 999 for a child affected by heat?
Guideline- England
- UKHSA
- Heat-Health Alerts
- Hot weather
- Youth sport
- 2026
- Coaches
- Under 18
UKHSA's guidance:
- Suspected heatstroke: call 999, then cool the child down while you wait for help. Heatstroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal.
- A child loses consciousness or has a fit: put them in the recovery position, call 999 immediately and follow the call handler's instructions.
Signs that point to heatstroke rather than heat exhaustion include confusion or lack of co-ordination, a seizure, loss of consciousness, a body temperature of 40°C or above, red hot skin (sweaty or dry), a fast heartbeat and fast, shallow breathing.
For heat exhaustion that is getting worse, or if you are worried, get medical advice from NHS 111.
Added 21 Oct 2026