A Few Summer Safety Tips for Kids
There is no greater feeling for a child than finishing up the school year and enjoying the summer sun. Bike rides, swimming, summer camp – there is no lack of excitement for your kids to experience. Still, it is important to remain safe while enjoying all of the adventure the summer season has to offer. From wearing sunscreen to treating bug bites, we have some summer safety tips to help you keep your kids safe this season. But before we jump in, we just have one crucial reminder: always check the back seat of your car, ensuring your kids don’t get locked in, and never leave your children unattended in a vehicle = even if the air conditioning is running.
Safety in the Sun:
Whether you’re splashing in the surf, boating on the lake, or floating around the pool, taking precautions when spending time in the sun is important. Everyone is at risk for sunburn or sun damage, regardless of age or skin tone. Keep your child safe while they soak up the rays with these tips:
- Limit time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. since these are peak hours.
- Apply sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater) 30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming.
- Wear clothing with UV protection built-in. There are many manufacturers who have UV hats, swim shirts and more available.
- Babies under 6 months old should not be exposed to direct sunlight, and it is recommended to protect their skin with UV protected clothing and hats.
Protecting Bug Bites and Ticks:
Bees, ticks, mosquitoes, and fire ants are just a few of the creepy crawlies that are prevalent during the summer months. When adventuring outdoors, your kids will encounter a variety of insects. Here are a few things you can do to keep your kids safe from stings and bites:
- Use insect repellents containing between 10% and 30% DEET.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants in the evenings when mosquitoes are most prevalent.
- Teach your child to avoid stagnant water and flower gardens.
- Have your child bathe after playing outdoors and conduct a full body check for Ticks. Particularly hidden areas like the ears.
Bike and Scooter Safety:
From riding scooters through the neighborhood to biking on trails, teaching your kids biking and scooter safety can mean the difference between a fun ride and a serious injury. Have a chat with your kids about the importance of protective gear, and that wearing a helmet is absolutely necessary regardless of the distance or duration of their ride. Keep these tips in mind when selecting protective gear and teaching proper riding etiquette:
- Make sure your child’s helmet meets the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSC) Standards.
- Helmets should be snug and level on your child’s head. You should be able to fit 2 fingers between the helmet strap and your child’s chin.
- Teach your child to obey all traffic laws, such as stopping at stop signs and yielding to vehicles.
Summer is an exciting time for having fun, exploring, and making memories that last a lifetime. It can be easy to get caught up in the enjoyment of the season and become lax with your kids safety. Dr. Deeb, Dr. McCoy, or Dr. Kelly are committed to both your enjoyment of this time and ensuring that your kids remain safe throughout this season. If you have any questions about sun safety, insect protection, or injury protection, please don’t hesitate to contact Briarcliff Pediatrics. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for practice updates and health tips. Have a happy and safe summer!
