Summer is the perfect time for families to be out having all kinds of fun and exciting outdoor adventures, but how can you keep your children safe while still making lifelong memories? With increasing temperatures come risks, we’re here to share Summer safety tips that will make your Summer a breeze.
Summer Safety In The Sun
Sunburns are dangerous. Not only are they painful, but they can increase your child’s risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Here are a few tips that can keep the burn away:
- Keeping arms and legs covered, staying in the shade as much as possible
- Wear a rash guard when swimming or headed to the beach for extra UV protection
- Apply Sunscreen – minimum of 15 per CDC guidelines. Always apply 30 minutes before going out into the sun and reapply often (especially after getting wet). Don’t forget, ears, nose, the tops of feet, and lips (many chapsticks have SPF in them)
- Wear a hat to keep the sun off of your face
- It’s even better if you can find one with neck protection!
- Wear sunglasses to protect eyes from UV rays
Water Safety
Enjoying the water on a hot day is a great way to have fun and stay cool. Regardless of whether this is in a lake, pond, ocean, full sized pool, or kiddie pool the key to safety is supervision. Be sure that even strong swimmers are monitored closely. Children who are unable to swim independently should never be left unsupervised near open water of any kind.
- Children in/on floating devices should be monitored carefully – these are not meant to be in place of adult supervision.
- Arm Length Rule – In the water children should always be only one arm length away incase you need to grab them. This is an easy visual for a child to understand as well.
- Life jackets should be worn by any non-swimmers when in or near water
- Life jackets should be worn by all people whenever boating
- Ensure that all life jackets fit properly and are neither too big or too small for the person wearing it.
Hydration is Key
When the weather gets hot, it is more important than ever to stay hydrated. Sweating is one way that our body naturally works to regulate temperature. When we sweat, we lose valuable water from our body, so staying hydrated becomes increasingly important.
- Drink lots of water
- Avoid sugary and caffeinated drinks
- Avoid salty foods
- Eat lots of fruits and veggies (these are a good source of water)
Safety While Playing
Activities such as playground trips, bike/scooter rides, and splash pads trips occur more often when the Summer months roll around. There are some important ways to keep children safe while they enjoy the fun.
- When bike riding, always wear a helmet (knee and elbow pads can be great too, but the helmet is key!)
- Make sure that the playground equipment is in good repair and is age appropriate for the children using it.
- Check slides and swings for extreme heat prior to children using them
- Wear rubber soled water shoes when using community splash pads to keep feet safe from rough or slippery surfaces
Car Safety
One of the scariest things we see on the news these days is children being left in hot cars. While I think everyone wants to believe it could never happen to them, life is often busy and distracting, so getting into the habit of being overly cautious is a good thing.
- Always check your backseat prior to exiting your vehicle to ensure that your child is not present. Some cars actually have reminder settings that will audibly remind you to check for children.
- Check the temperature of the car prior to putting children into it. If it’s exceptionally hot, start the car and run the air conditioning for a few minutes prior to getting in.
- Always lock your car when you get home. An unlocked car can look like an appealing place for children to play and they can unwittingly lock themselves in and overheat.
Summer Safety Product Recommendations:
Badger Sunscreen and Face Stick
Coast Guard Approved Child’s Life Jacket
Summer safety is important in order to have fun. So, be sure to review all these tips before you head out in the hot sun or on vacation. Are you looking for a Summer Nanny, apply today so we can help you right away!
About The Author
Sarah Proctor has worked with young children for over 25 years as a teacher, childcare director, nanny, and mom of two girls. She has her Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education and Administration from UMass Amherst. In addition, Sarah has her Director 2 certification from the Department of Early Education and Care.
