Summer is finally here – the sun is shining, the birds are singing and the lush green grass at the local park beacons. It’s the perfect time for kids to get some outdoor activity and the possibilities are endless but parents also need to take important precautions to ensure their children have both a fun and safe summer! With some help from my friends, I have put together a list of 7 safety tips to help your family have a summer to remember!
1) Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! –Staying hydrated in hot weather can help reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Keep water or sports drinks (with electrolytes) on hand to maintain hydration, and try to stay in a shady or air-conditioned location during the hottest parts of the afternoon.
2) Dress smart –Wear minimal amounts of clothing to facilitate cooling by evaporation. “Remember, it’s not sweating that cools the body; rather, the evaporation of sweat into the atmosphere,” Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton.
3) Sun protection – Generously apply sunscreen 30 minutes before your child goes out in the sun. Choose a sunscreen with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 or higher. Scented and colorful sunscreens appeal to some kids and make it easier to see which areas have been covered well. Don’t forget nose, ears, hands, feet, shoulders, and behind the neck; lips can also burn, so apply a lip balm with SPF protection. Reapply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours, or after sweating or swimming.
4) Acclimate the body – Allow your child’s body to adapt partially to heat through repeated gradual daily exposures. “An increase in the body’s circulatory and cooling efficiency, called acclimatization, generally occurs in only four to 14 days.
5) Bring on the water activities! – Pools, water parks or even a hose in the backyard are great ways to get plenty of exercise and stay cool. It should go without saying but NEVER leave kids alone near the pool no matter what their ages or swim capabilities are.
6) Ok park play – The playground at the local park is always a fan favorite for the little tykes. This is a great place to build strength, balance and coordination. Be sure to always check the playground equipment before letting your kids play on it. For example, surfaces that are too hot can cause burns. Check for loose ropes that aren’t secured on both ends. The ground should be covered in a protective surface such as rubber mats, rubber mulch or wood chips, never asphalt or concrete. The right surface materials could reduce the risk of injury in the event of a fall.
7) Camping safe – We all have fond memories of wonderful family camping trips as a child. There is no better way to bond with the family and explore all our beautiful country has to over. To protect your family it is so important to be well prepared.
- Bring plenty of water
- Avoid wild animals. Do not feed!
- Obey all posted safety signs
- Educate your family on poisonous plants and other environmental hazards
- Never leave children unaccompanied
Now get outside and have a great summer!!!
Leave a comment