With summer rapidly approaching, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. But it is important to follow certain safety precautions to keep your family safe. Here are some simple ways you can protect your family this summer.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin. When choosing a sunscreen, it’s best to pick one that has broad spectrum coverage, meaning it protects against UVA and UVB rays. It’s important to choose a sunscreen that is over SPF 30. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or after swimming.
- There are two types of sunscreens:
- Mineral: Contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Works instantly and works by reflecting UV rays.
- Chemical: Includes ingredients like Avobenzone and Oxybenzone, which absorb UV rays and release them as heat through the skin.
- Consider extra sun-protection: Wear lightweight clothing, hats and sunglasses.
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Heat safety
Heat safety is another important concern during the summer. If the heat index is above 90 degrees, it’s important to be more careful than usual, especially when playing outdoors. Temperatures over 90 degrees can lead to heat exhaustion, cramps and heat stroke.
- Watch the Heat Index: Use extra caution when temps hit 90°F+.
- Stay Cool Indoors: Visit libraries, malls or recreation centers during peak heat. Encourage indoor play, crafts and reading.
- Hydrate Often: Make water bottles easily accessible and remind everyone to drink frequently.
- Dress Smart: Loose, light-colored clothing keeps the body cool.
- Never Leave Kids in the hot Car: Even for a minute.
- Know Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
- Fatigue, vomiting, dizziness.
- Extreme thirst, no urine/wet diapers.
- Fast breathing, muscle cramps, headache.
- Seek medical help immediately if any of these appear.
Insect safety
Another safety concern while playing outdoors in the summer are insects. The months of May through August is when you want to be vigilant when checking for ticks and watching out for other insects such as mosquitos.
- Tick Prevention: Avoid tall grass, bushes, and wooded areas.
- Check for Ticks: Bathe or shower within 2 hours of being outdoors. Look closely at hairlines, behind ears, and under arms.
- Use EPA-Approved Insect Repellent: Look for 20%+ DEET to protect against ticks and mosquitoes or any EPA-approved products to help repel insects.
- Tick Bites: If you find one, remove it right away and contact your doctor. Photograph any red “bull’s-eye” rash or the tick itself.
Water safety
Water safety is one of the most important topics on this list. Between ages 1-4, more children die from drowning than any other cause of death. It is also the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for ages 5-14.
- Supervise Constantly: Designate an adult water watcher — never assume someone else is watching your children around bodies of water.
- Use Life Jackets: Choose U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, even for strong swimmers.
- Pool Precautions:
- If you have a pool, install a fence with a locked gate around the pool and/or property.
- Teach kids to ask permission before entering any body of water.
- Never dive headfirst unless clearly marked safe.
Fireworks & BBQ safety
With the fourth of July coming up, it’s important to think about safety when it comes to fireworks, fire pits and grilling. It’s estimated that about 28% of firework related injuries happen in children under age 15.
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Fireworks:
- Attend public displays when possible-this is safest way to experience fireworks.
- Use fireworks in open, clear areas — away from trees, grass and buildings.
- Wear protective gear such as protective eyewear and never re-light duds.
- Keep kids far away — even sparklers can reach temperatures up to 2,000°F. Glow sticks make a safer option.
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Grilling:
- Keep kids and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill.
- Use long-handled tools and grilling gloves to prevent burns.
- Watch out for metal brush bristles in food after cleaning grills.
- Place grill 10 feet from your home or any structure.
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Fire pits:
- Never use gas or accelerants on flames.
- Set up at least 10 feet from buildings or flammable items.
- Use a metal cover to control sparks.
- Assign one adult to always monitor the fire.
Enjoy summer with peace of mind by following these safety tips. Staying proactive and knowledgeable can help prevent accidents and keep your family happy and healthy all season long.
