Along with the warm weather, summer also brings many hidden dangers. From the local playground to the lake campground, there are many safety concerns such as drowning, heat exhaustion and bug bites. In fact, the MedlinePlus website notes that burns and near drownings are among the leading causes of child hospitalizations in the summer months. Fortunately, there are a variety of precautions that can help keep your child safe this summer.
Water Safety
According to the KeepKidsHealthy website it is important to make sure your child always wears a life jacket when playing in a large body of water such as a lake, ocean or river. Remember that fast moving water can sweep your child under or carry him far away from shore.
Always make sure there is adult supervision, even if your child is a good swimmer. Never leave him unattended, even for just a minute! Do not allow kids to run or play rough in or around water, even a shallow swimming pool. Teach your child how to swim or sign him up for swimming lessons.
Sun Safety
Prevent sun related injuries, such as burns and heatstroke, by avoiding direct sun exposure. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests dressing your child in a wide-brimmed hat and cotton clothing that protects her skin from sunburns. Keep her in the shade as much as possible, especially during the hours of 10 a.m and 4 p.m when the sun is strongest.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has at least 15 SPF because it deflects 93 percent of UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburn. Be sure to reapply the sunscreen every two hours, especially after your child gets wet from sweat or water. Be extra careful around sand---it can easily reflect the sun's UV rays and cause a painful sunburn.
Insect Protection
Because summertime typically means you will be outdoors more, be sure to keep your child's skin safe from insect bites. Insects can carry dangerous diseases such as West Nile virus. Apply an insect repellent that contains at least 10 percent DEET. Although repellent lasts for several hours, you may have to reapply it after your child sweats or plays in the water. Because some brands of insect repellents contain chemicals that should only be applied once a day, be sure to check the instructions on the packaging to make sure reapplication is safe.
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