Here in Arizona, kids can comfortably spend time outside year round. Unlike most of the country, summer isn’t just a few months of nice weather since it’s always nice in Arizona.
Still, with school occupying the rest of the year, summer is a time for kids to spend a couple months with their time largely unscheduled. However, with the extra freedom that summer brings, the potential dangers for kids increase. Here are a few safety tips to make certain kids are safe all summer long:
Stay Cool by Staying 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 and a child’s increasing activity throughout the summer.
Observe 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.
Limit Outdoor Play to Mornings
The sun isn’t as hot in the early morning as it is between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parents can help children avoid peak sun time by encouraging kids to play outside before the temperature rises.
Don’t Forget the Sunscreen
Because children spend so much time outside and under the summer sun, the chance of getting sunburn dramatically increases. Cover kids with a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30 and, while infants shouldn’t be in direct sun any time of year, if you have to take them out, an SPF of 30-50 is suggested. Use sunscreen to assure a sunburn-free summer.
Make Sure Kids 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.
Safely 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 repellent 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.
Bike Safety
While biking is a favorite activity of children during summer months, injuries can sometimes occur when riding a bike. Make sure your child always wears a helmet and knee pads to ease a fall. Don’t let skinned knees ruin your child’s summer fun.
Summer is a time for getting outdoors and being active. Keep in mind these safety tips and your family will have a fun, injury-free summer!
