As the temperatures rise and school breaks begin, summer presents an exciting opportunity for children to explore, play, and create memories. However, it also brings a unique set of safety challenges. In celebration of National Safety Month, here are five essential tips to help ensure your children stay safe while enjoying their summer adventures.
Stay Sun Safe
One of the biggest concerns during summer is the intense sun. To keep your kids safe from harmful UV rays:
- Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. You’ll want to choose a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Encourage your child to wear hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants when possible.
- Seek Shade: Make sure your child takes breaks in the shade, especially during peak sun hours from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Water Safety First
Whether it’s a pool, lake, or beach, water activities are a summer staple. To ensure safety around water:
- Supervise Constantly: Always watch your children when they are in or near water. Avoid distractions such as phones or books.
- Learn to Swim: Enroll your child in swimming lessons appropriate for their age and skill level.
- Use Life Jackets: Ensure your child wears a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating or participating in water sports.
Stay Hydrated
Heat and outdoor activities increase the risk of dehydration. Keep your kids well-hydrated by:
- Encouraging Regular Water Breaks: Make sure your child drinks water frequently, even if they don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoiding Sugary Drinks: Limit beverages like soda and juice that can contribute to dehydration. Opt for water or hydrating snacks like fruits.
Play It Safe Outdoors
Summer means more time spent outside playing sports, riding bikes, and exploring. Keep these tips in mind:
- Wear Helmets and Protective Gear: Ensure your child wears a helmet when biking, skateboarding, or rollerblading, and other appropriate gear for different activities.
- Choose Safe Play Areas: Select parks and playgrounds with well-maintained equipment and soft ground surfaces like mulch or sand.
- Teach Road Safety: Remind your child to look both ways before crossing the street and to follow traffic signals and pedestrian signs.
Bug Off!
Summer brings an increase in insects like mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry diseases. Protect your child by:
- Using Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing.
- Wearing Appropriate Clothing: Dress your child in long sleeves and pants when in wooded or grassy areas.
- Checking for Ticks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your child’s body and clothing for ticks and promptly remove any found.
Taking these precautions can help ensure your child has a fun and safe summer. Let’s make this National Safety Month a time to prioritize safety and create lasting, positive memories for our children. Happy summer!
For more tips and updates on child safety and health, follow Anderson Hills Pediatrics on Facebook and Instagram. Stay safe and enjoy the season!