Keeping Kids Safe During The Summer

Summer is here and that means more time outside for our little ones! While your kids are outside enjoying the summer air, make sure you take steps to ensure you are keeping them safe and healthy.

Water Safety

When it comes to summer activities, anything involving the water is typically a big hit. Not only is it fun, but it can help kids stay cool while being active. Swimming and other activities in the water can help kids stay fit and healthy. Get the most out of the water this summer while making sure everyone stays safe!

• Did you know about 350 children under the age of five drown in pools each year nationwide? Parents and caregivers can play a huge role in water safety and preventing drownings. Anytime children are in or near any water, be sure to closely supervise them or make them get away from the water. Even a couple of minutes without supervision could result in injury or worse.
• When it comes to water safety, drowning isn’t the only thing parents need to worry about. Waterborne illnesses become more common during summer when more people are sharing water. Be sure to take your children on bathroom breaks, change any diapers hourly and check the cleanliness of any pool before getting in.
• If you are boating, be sure that every passenger on your boat has a properly fitted life jacket and is wearing them at all times (even while the boat isn’t in motion).

Sun Safety

Did you know that just a few serious sunburns can increase you and your child’s risk of skin cancer down the road? When enjoying the outdoors it is important for both children and adults to properly protect themselves from ultraviolet (UV rays)

• UV rays from the sun are strongest and most harmful to the skin during midday, when making plans outdoors try to plan them outside of those times. If planning to be outside at a better time is not possible, try to seek shade or use sunscreen.
• When possible, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants or skirts can provide additional protection from sun rays.
• Always wear a hat which provides shade for your face, scalp ears and even neck. If any areas of left exposed, use sunscreen as well.
• Always wear sunglasses to protect eyes from UV rays.
• Always apply sunscreen 30 minutes before enjoying the outdoors.