Top 10 of Summer Safety
Summer is just around the corner. School will end, and your children can relish in three months of carefree fun.
But the season's good times can also present some health risks for your child. No one wants an injury to spoil their summer fun, so think ahead to keep your children safe this summer.
- Sunscreen
The first safe, summer rule is - you guessed it - wear sunscreen. The sun's intensity is at its peak during the summer months, so it is more critical than ever to apply lotion before going outside. Not just on sunny days either; the sun's rays can still damage your skin on cloudy days. Be sure to apply sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) at least 20 minutes before going outside. If you or your kids will be spending a lot of time outside, make sure to cover up (light-colored clothes reflect the light best), and wear sunglasses and a hat. - Water Safety
Warm, sunny days mean a lot of time playing at the beach or splashing in the pool. Teach your children never to enter the water without an adult, and watch your children at all times when you are near a pool or beach. Don't allow floaties or other flotation devices to take the place of close supervision. Try to swim at beaches with a lifeguard on duty, pay attention to water conditions and when boating, insist on a life jacket. - Bike Helmets
Unfortunately, many parents still do not insist that their children wear a helmet every single time they ride their bike. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 85 percent of bicyclists killed in 2003 reportedly were not wearing helmets. Learn more about Bicycle Helmet Safety. - Scooter, Skateboard and Skating Safety
Don't forget other types of recreation on wheels. In addition to helmets when inline skating, skateboarding and scooting, kids should always wear elbow, wrist and knee pads to prevent injuries associated with falls. Make sure the safety equipment fits properly and is worn correctly. Teach your child to stay away from cars and other vehicles, and use the sidewalk and paved off-road paths. Never allow your child to wear headphones while riding. The music will block traffic sounds. - Get Moving
Childhood obesity is rising at an alarming rate. According to the American Obesity association, more than 15 percent of American children and adolescents ages six to 19 are obese. Summer is a wonderful time to head outside and get some exercise. - Hot Cars
Don't ever leave your kids (or pets) in the car while you are running errands, even for just a few minutes. When temperatures reach 90 degrees outside, the temperature in a car may climb to 120 degrees within 20 minues. According to a study done by General Motors, 120 children died between 1996 and 2000 from being left in hot cars during the summer, most of whom were under the age of three. Even on mild days, the rising temperature of a vehicle can be dangerous to a child because a young child's body temperature rises three to five times faster than that of an adult, which can lead to injury or death.
Kids, Cars and Heat (pdf)
Kids, Cars and Heat (Spanish) (pdf) - Hydration
Playing outside on hot summer days can lead to dehydration. Avoid being outdoors for long periods of time on the hottest days. If spending time outside in hot weather is necessary, have your child drink plenty of fluids and take frequent breaks in the shade.
Severe dehydration can take the form of heat exhaustion and heat stroke - two serious conditions that require immediate action. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include fatigue, dizziness, headaches and nausea. Your child's skin may become pale, cold and clammy and his or her breathing and heart rate may be faster than normal. The symptoms of heat stroke include red-hot dry skin from lack of sweat, confusion and delirium. If you suspect heat stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately. - Pedestrian Safety
According to the Department of Transportation, a pedestrian is injured in a traffic crash every eight minutes. Children darting out between vehicles and dashing across intersections account for 60-70% of the total pedestrian injuries for children under the age of 10.
To promote safe pedestrian habits in your children, first set a good example. Your children learn from your actions, so if you walk out between parked cars, jaywalk or cross against a light, it is likely that your kids will too. Second, show small children where they can play safely and the limits beyond which they cannot go. Be prepared to enforce your rules. Teach older children the basic rules for crossing the street safely. Take them for a walk and demonstrate and explain the rules you have established. Learn more about Pedestrian/Walking Safety. - Bug Bites
Nobody likes an itchy mosquito bite, or any other insect bite or sting, for that matter. Insist that your child wears shoes outside to minimize the risk of a bee or insect stings on the feet. Never use insect repellent on infants. For older children, bug spray can be used sparingly, but wash it off as soon as your child comes indoors. Also, check your child for ticks after being outside. If you find one, talk to your doctor about how to remove it. If your child develops hives or wheezing after an insect sting, he or she may be allergic. Seek prompt medical attention. - Backyard and Playground Safety
Summer is the best time of the year for playing in the yard and running around at a playground. Always supervise your kids when they are playing on equipment. Teach your child safe play habits, including sitting on the center of a swing (not off to one side) and not twisting the swing chains, which can reduce the chain's strength. Keep kids away from areas where lawn mowers are being used, and never allow children to ride with you on lawn mowers.