Helping to Keep Kids Safe Over Summer Break

May is the month that summer break finally arrives for anxious students 

Summer is a time for kids to play outside and make memories with their friends and family. However, with the extra freedom that summer brings, the potential dangers for kids increase.

While these tips may seem fairly obvious and are just common-sense, parents can get very busy, with summer days being even more hectic, and it can’t hurt to re-enforce a few ideas that can help make certain that kids stay safe for their entire summer break.  

Stay Hydrated

With the sun blazing down during summer, your kids should be well hydrated at all times. Make sure children are drinking more water than usual to go along with the increasing temperatures.

Pool Safety

Always keep an eye on your kids when they are playing in or around water! If your children cannot touch the bottom of the pool, place a life vest or water wings on them to keep them afloat. Supervising kids while they are around water will ease your mind, while keeping them out of trouble.

If kids are going to play at the house of a friend that has a pool, check it out ahead of time to be certain the pool is gated so kids don’t fall into the water by accident, and talk to the friend’s parents about pool safety.

Play Outdoors in the Morning or Evening

The sun isn’t as hot in the early morning as it is between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Avoid peak sun time by having your kids playing outside before the temperature rises, or later in the day when the sun is going down.

Wear Sunscreen Any Time Kids are Outdoors

Because children spend so much time outside and under the summer sun, the chance of getting sunburn dramatically increases. Cover kids with an SPF 50 or 60 sunscreen to assure a sunburn-free summer.

Cover Up

Because sunscreen can wash off, it’s also a good idea to keep kids covered up by having them wear hats and other protective clothing while outside. Ultraviolet rays can also burn a child’s eyes; protect children with sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB light.

Keep Bugs Away

Pesky bugs always come out on hot days and nights. Prevent bug bites by spraying insect repellant all over your kids when they are playing outside. Look for insect repellant containing DEET.

Road Rules

Road trips are a fun addition to summertime. Make sure your kids are wearing seatbelts at all times. Kids under the age of 13 should be sitting in the backseat as well. With all the activities happening, traveling safely is an important factor during the summer months.

By keeping an eye on a few potentially troubling situations, it is possible for kids to have a fun and active summer while still staying safe.