Summer Safety For Kids

By Author: Dr. Rosenfeld
Total Articles: 3
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For millions of students across the United States, summer represents temporary freedom from the pressures of school and adolescence. It is a time for family vacations, trips to the beach, and spending quality time with good friends. Unfortunately, illness and injury don’t take vacations, and staying safe during the summer requires just as much common sense as any other time of the year. Below is a list of some common sense summer safety tips that children and teens of all ages can use to stay safe this summer:

Tip #1: Mind the Sun
Temperatures are typically hottest during the summer months, which make measures to prevent heat injuries all the more important. Children should use sun block during outdoor activities to reduce effects of harmful UV rays. A regular hydration schedule can prevent injuries like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Thirst is an early indicator of dehydration, so children should be reminded to drink to avoid thirst, not to quench it.

Tip #2: Mind the Water
Many an experienced surfers and divers have been swept away and drowned in currents too strong for their bodies to ...
... fight. Children should avoid venturing too far into the ocean. In addition, they should always be aware of the nearest life guard station, whether or not a lifeguard is on duty, and their distance from shore. If one travels too far, even an on duty lifeguard may not be able to hear a cry for help. Owners of backyard pools should never allow children in or near a pool without an adult present. In the absence of a qualified lifeguard, any responsible adult can serve as a pool monitor to ensure children remain safe and under constant supervision.

Tip #3: Mind the Road
Children and teens on wheels must be aware of the rules of the road that pertain to them. Some jurisdictions may restrict when and where bikes, skates, or skateboards can be operated, but parents can verify specific requirements by contacting their local police agency. Pediatricians recommends the use of helmets and joint pads for bicycle riders and skaters of all ages, during all times, regardless of local requirements. Reflective clothing or gear should be worn to illuminate bicycle riders and skaters during the hours of darkness. When sharing the road with motor vehicles is allowed, bicycle riders and skaters should travel in the same direction as traffic and should utilize proper hand and arm signals while moving.

Tip #4: Mind the Web
With more time on their hands, children will often turn to the Internet for entertainment. Unfortunately, predators and scam artists also turn to the web in search of victims to exploit. Placing a computer in a high traffic area of a home will deter children from visiting questionable sites, and several third party options exist that allow parents to control what kind of content their children are able to view. Remind children about the dangers of communicating with strangers on the web. Along with strangers, children can also be harmed by virtual bullying, which is often committed by individuals whom the child knows personally. Engage children in honest dialog about the subject and attempt to explain how to properly handle a cyber-bully.

Despite how simple these tips sound, they are highly effective. Taking the time to plan and prepare before undertaking a potentially risky task can exponentially reduce one’s risk of injury.

Dr. Rosenfeld is a San Diego Pediatrician who has been in practice for 35 years. She is also a member of Children's Physicians Medical Group. More information about summer safety tips available in the site.