Babies are especially vulnerable to summer heat — and, in metro Detroit, temperatures often climb into the mid-80s or higher. In 2025, long-range forecasts predict even more heat and humidity than usual, adding a layer of stress for parents.
“It doesn’t take much for a baby’s core temperature to rise quickly,” says Dr. Shalini Sethi, a Plymouth-based pediatrician with Henry Ford Health. “They do not produce as much sweat compared to adults. Their body temperature will stay higher.”
Discover what metro Detroit parents should know about summer heat safety for babies.
Why babies are more vulnerable to heat
Babies’ bodies handle heat very differently than adults and even older kids. Sethi outlines four key reasons:
- Larger surface area: Infants have more skin relative to their body size, so they absorb heat faster.
- More heat production: Sethi explains, “Even little babies make so much heat just moving their hands and legs.”
- Less sweat output: Unlike grown-ups, babies don’t produce much sweat to cool off.
- Slower regulation: “You and me outside — our bodies quickly acclimatize,” Sethi adds. “Not babies.” This is especially true during sudden heat spikes.
Babies’ core body temperature can rise quickly, putting them at risk for heat exhaustion or dehydration.
When exactly can heat be a problem for babies?
If it’s over 87°F indoors or over 103°F heat index outside, Sethi says, babies are at risk.
And if it’s hotter than 90°F indoors, don’t rely on fans, she adds. “They actually push hot air onto the baby and can worsen dehydration.”
Spotting signs of overheating
Not all warning signs are obvious. “A very important subtle sign is, ‘Is my baby peeing?’” Sethi explains. Watch for these red flags that your baby might be overheating:
- Reduced urine output or dry diapers for 4-6 hours
- Fewer tears when crying
- Lethargy or unusual sleepiness
- Poor feeding or disinterest in eating
- Hot, flushed or clammy skin
This can be especially true during naps or long car rides, Sethi notes.
“Air conditioning itself in a car can make the baby dehydrated,” she says. On car trips, “It’s important to give more feeds and take more frequent breaks.”
Essential prevention tips to keep babies safe and cool
Keeping babies safe in the heat means paying attention to more than just the temperature.
- NEVER leave a baby in a car — even briefly. Car interiors can spike 20°F in just 10 minutes. “Make sure every kid is out,” Sethi says. “Then, lock the car.”
- Keep rooms below 87°F. Use A/C or a window unit. If that’s not an option, go to a public cooling center. “Don’t have a fan running if it’s hotter than that. Better to leave.”
- Dress lightly. Choose breathable light-color cotton — skip socks, hats and synthetic fabrics, especially in the car.
- Avoid stroller covers. Use mesh panels and an umbrella shade to keep air flowing.
- Offer more feeds. Breastmilk, formula or sips of water for older babies avoid dehydration.
- Choose shaded or splashy spots. Head to leafy parks or splash pads to stay cool outdoors.
Local cooling centers and shaded spots in metro Detroit
Here are a few local options when it’s too hot to stay home.
Cooling centers
These libraries, community centers and more are open during extreme heat, offering extended hours.
- Detroit Public Library select branches (seven locations)
- Macomb County cooling centers (19 communities)
- Oakland County cooling centers (20+ locations)
- Washtenaw County cooling sites (17 locations)
- Wayne County cooling centers (24 communities)
Splash pads
These baby-safe destinations are zero-depth. Hop in for a quick cool-off, then seek shade.
Our list of 10 top splash pads in metro Detroit highlights options in Clinton Township, Detroit, Sterling Heights, West Bloomfield and more.
Shaded parks
Explore local parks known for good tree coverage, such as:
- Allmendinger Park in Ann Arbor
- Lawndale Park in Mount Clemens
- Meninger Park in Royal Oak
- Plymouth Riverside in Plymouth (Hines Park)
Trusted sources
For more guidance, Sethi says, follow the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and American Academy of Pediatrics or call your pediatrician.
“Don’t rely on Google,” says Sethi. “If you have any doubts, even a gut feeling, just call us.”
This content is sponsored by Henry Ford Health. For related content, visit Top Kids Health Questions Answered!
