Three Summer Safety Reminders

Summer Safety Reminders

            Summertime means fun time for kids of all ages, you know, like ‘from one to ninety-two’.  The warm weather has a way of drawing us outdoors to enjoy the sunshine, participate in sports and other activities and then cool off in the water. Here are some simple reminders that will help keep you and your family safe as you enjoy this wonderful time of the year.

Sun and Heat Protection

            While the sun may be the main draw during the summer, it can also be the source of several significant health problems.  Sunburn can cause red, painful skin that appears several hours after exposure.  It can be particularly dangerous in younger children and older adults, because the skin is more sensitive, as well as for those with fair skin.  Sunburn increases your chance of developing dry, wrinkled skin and certain types of skin cancer, such as melanoma.  Sunburn can occur even on cloudy days, or on the ski slopes and while you are in or on the water.  You can protect yourself from sunburn by covering up with clothing and a hat while outside and by applying sunscreen with an SPF of 15 to 30 or greater on all exposed areas of your body.  It is also important to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light, which include cataracts and retinal degeneration.  Heat exhaustion is another serious condition, usually caused by the combination of strenuous physical activity and heat exposure.  It is characterized by sweating and rapid pulse and without treatment can lead to a life threatening condition known as heat stroke.  Heat related injuries can be prevented by avoiding strenuous activity in the heat, staying hydrated, wearing loose fitting clothing and taking time to rest and cool down at intervals.  

Injury Prevention

            Who would have guessed that a couple of simple round objects like a wheel or a ball could provide so much fun and entertainment for so many people down through the ages!  One way or another, almost all of us will include one or both of these objects in our activities this summer…think bicycling, skateboarding, baseball and tennis!  Whether it’s a neighborhood game of basketball or early high school football practice, it is important to wear protective gear and be alert to signs of concussion.  Be sure to check out our full article addressing the increasingly recognized problem of sports related Concussion.  Many of us will head out on a road trip for the family vacation this year and that means we need to pay particular attention to driving safety and the proper use of seat belts and car seats.  Biking, skateboarding and off road activities all require the use of helmets and other protective gear.  Common sense, proper supervision and engaging in age-appropriate activities all play a role in injury prevention.       

Water Safety

            Pools, lakes, rivers and oceans attract all manner of water sportsmen during the summertime, enjoying activities such as swimming, boating and water skiing.  It is a sad fact that there are more than 3,000 unintentional drowning deaths in the U.S. each year.  Children four years of age and younger and adolescent boys are at the greatest risk of drowning.  Children should be watched at all times while swimming or near the water.  Backyard pools should be equipped with appropriate alarm systems and surrounded by secure fences.  Swimming lessons, especially for children under four years of age, will significantly decrease their chance of drowning.  Life jackets should be worn at all times while boating.  It is important to remember that operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol is illegal and for a good reason.  For more suggestions on staying safe while having fun in the water see our article on Water Safety.  Here’s hoping you and your family have a fun, memorable and safe summer.

Attention to Water Safety is Essential During the Summer.