Summer is a great time for kids to enjoy outdoor activities. However, it's important to keep them safe while they're having fun. Here are some summer safety tips for kids:
1. **Keep watch to prevent drowning**. Summer water safety should be top of mind for parents, regardless if you have a pool in your backyard or visit a community pool. It only takes seconds for drowning to happen.
2. **Look for signs of heat exhaustion**. Cases of heat stroke spike during the summer months, and this can be dangerous for kids who are playing outside for long periods of time. Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold and clammy skin, pale or flushed complexion, headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness and confusion.
3. **Check for car safety**. Make sure your child is in the right car seat or booster seat for their age and size. Never leave your child alone in a car, even for a minute.
4. **Protect your child from too much sun**. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so be extra careful during that time. Whenever your child is outside, use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Choose one that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside.
5. **Hydrate**! When it comes to warm weather, hydration is key — and not just when kids are playing sports or being active outdoors. Make sure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day.
6. **Maintain healthy eating habits**. Sodas and sugary drinks can be tempting on hot summer days, but they can also lead to dehydration and weight gain if consumed in excess.
7. **Be Sun Smart** Seek shade when necessary. UV rays are strongest and most harmful during midday, so it’s best to plan indoor activities... When possible, cover up with long-sleeved shirts and long pants and skirts to provide protection from UV rays. Wear a hat that shades the face, scalp, ears, and ...
8. **Apply only small amounts of sunscreen on children less than six months old**.
9. **Avoid bringing out kids under one year old to direct sunlight**.
10. **Cover children’s heads under direct sunlight**.
I hope these tips help you keep your kids safe this summer!
