Summer is an enjoyable time for the whole family, because the kids are off from school and the warm weather allows you to participate in fun activities outdoors. From swimming and camping to fireworks and cookouts, there is something for everyone. Although summer is a special time of year, there are many potential hazards that you need to be aware of. According to the National Safe Kids Campaign, more than 2.4 million summer emergency room visits by children ages 14 and younger in the US are due to unintentional injury. Help your kids stay safe and healthy this summer with the following summer safety tips for kids (We have also included some summer safety tips for adults for good measure.).
1. Prepare a Summer First-Aid Kit
The best way to handle an emergency situation is to be as prepared as possible. Pack a summer first-aid kit that includes sanitizing wipes, latex gloves, Neosporin, bandages of all sizes, tweezers or sterile needles, instant ice packs, saline solution, and small doses of over-the-counter pain killers.
2. Protect Your Kids from the Sun’s Harmful UV Rays
Even a few sunburns can increase your risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Protect your kids and yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays anytime you go outdoors by wearing clothing that covers the skin and by using sunscreen with at least sun protection factor (SPF) 15.
3. Always Supervise Children When They are Around Water
Two to three children die every day as a result of drowning. A responsible adult should constantly watch young children when they are in and around water. As a precaution, you might also want to learn CPR so that you will be able to respond quickly in the case of emergency.
4. Never Leave Infants, Children or Pets in a Parked Car
Leaving infants, children or pets alone in the car for several minutes can put them at risk for heat stroke, power window strangulation or even death. A car’s windows can act like a greenhouse, trapping heat and sunlight. Temperatures inside the vehicle can rise above 100 degrees in as little as 10 minutes.
5. Use an Effective Insect Repellent While Outdoors
Protect yourself and your kids from bug bites by using an effective bug repellent this summer. Insect repellents can defend you against ticks, fleas, chiggers, mosquitos, and biting flies, among other insects.
6. Beat the Heat
Schedule outdoor activities for the morning or evening hours to beat the heat and avoid the hot, mid-day sun. Stay in the shade whenever possible, and be sure to drink water throughout the day in order to keep hydrated.
7. Use Fireworks Safely
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2013, 19% of firework injuries around the 4th of July were form children ages 5-14. Small children should never be allowed to handle fireworks, and older children should only use fireworks under close supervision. Fireworks should be lit in a clear space away from buildings and people. You should also light only one item at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting.
Summer is the perfect time to relax, unwind, and have fun. However, there are many potential dangers that you need to be aware of in the summer months, and it is important to take certain precautions to prevent injury and illness. Following these summer safety tips for kids and adults will prevent a fun day in the sun from ending in injury or tragedy.
