It’s summer time! Across the country kids are rejoicing that there is no school or books or teacher’s unapproving looks. But for parents, summer takes on a whole, new set of concerns….summer safety worries. Don’t fret, I have a summer checklist that will help keep the kids happy and healthy all summer long.
Heat safety
There are nearly 700 deaths each year due to heat-related illness per the Centers of Disease Control (CDC). The young and old are most susceptible. Staying Cool, hydrated and informed about the heat will keep your family safe on the hottest days of summer. Remember these tips:
-Wear loose fitting, light colored, lightweight clothes.
-Choose activities in the morning and evening. Stay in between 10am-4pm.
-Frequently rest in the shade or find a cool area.
-Prevent sunburn. It alters the ability of the body to cool itself.
-Drink plenty of fluids.
-Recognize danger signs (dizziness, headache, confusion) and STOP the activity.
-Never leave a child in a hot car.
Sun safety
In a 2016 Position Statement, the American Academy of Dermatology voiced concern about the increase prevalence of skin cancer in young adults. It reports that just one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double the chance of developing melanoma later in life. Start these skin protective habits early in life to maintain healthy skin:
-Wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30.
-Cover up with sun protective gear-ex. clothing, glasses and a hat.
-Find some shade.
Water safety
According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of death due to unintentional injury in children ages 1-4. Most occur in and around the home. Set up these layers of protection to prevent drowning:
-Assign a water watcher.
-Utilize water safety equipment-ex. barriers, bells and a life ring.
-Know CPR.
-Learn to swim.
-Have non-swimmers wear life vests.
Bug safety
People love to get out for a little summer fun. But so do insects thriving in the warmth and humidity. Mosquitos and ticks potentially carry viruses-Zika, West Nile and Lyme disease. And for individuals with allergies to stings, buzzing bees can be dangerous as well. Don’t forget these tips to prevent bug encounters:
-Apply an EPA registered repellent.
-Remove stagnant water.
-Create a Tick Free Zone.
-Keep a bee sting Anaphylaxis Emergency Action Plan.
Injury prevention
In the US, nearly half of all unintentional injury-related deaths among children ages 14 and younger occur during the three months of summer. Teach and practice injury prevention at home with these life-saving tips.
-Supervise younger children.
-Safety proof your environment (especially home).
-Talk about ways to be safer.
-Wear safety gear-ex. helmet, seat belt, car seat, life vest.
-Warn against being impaired or distracted-ex. alcohol, drugs, texting.
Have a great summer and be safe out there!
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