Prolonged heatwaves turn air conditioners into lifesavers for many families, but if used improperly, they can create conditions for viruses and bacteria to thrive, making children susceptible to illness.
1. 7 golden rules for using air conditioning wisely to protect children during hot summer days
Prolonged heatwaves turn air conditioners into lifesavers for many families, but if used improperly, they can create conditions for viruses and bacteria to thrive, making children susceptible to illness.
Here are 7 golden rules for using air conditioning wisely:
1. Adjust the air conditioner temperature: Infants and young children tolerate different temperature levels. Infants require higher temperatures than older children. Parents should find the suitable temperature for their child's body and health. The temperature difference between the room and outside should not exceed 5 degrees Celsius.
2. Avoid running the air conditioner all day long: Keeping the air conditioner on continuously throughout the day can greatly affect health when spending extended periods in a closed room with the air conditioner on. It's recommended to stay in air-conditioned rooms for no more than 2 hours.
3. Children should not suddenly go outside while being in an air-conditioned environment to prevent heat shock, which can lead to illnesses such as headaches, fever... as the child's body may not adapt quickly. When leaving the room, open the door wide and stand at the doorway for a few minutes to allow the child to get closer to the outside air, allowing their body to adjust to the new air.
4. Avoid letting children bathe in air-conditioned areas. Children lying down should avoid direct air conditioning drafts - especially around the head and limbs, and avoid windows.
5. Air conditioners should have ventilation fans: When using air conditioners, there should be a certain degree of openness in the room to allow air circulation, limiting the invasion of bacteria and viruses into the child's body.
6. Regularly clean the air filter as air conditioners accumulate dust over time, which can cause allergies in children.
7. The ideal room humidity level is 50%. Avoid using humidifiers as water particles in the air can create a cooling sensation but may also act as carriers for harmful bacteria and viruses.