Tips for Parents to Make Summer as Safe as Possible for Their Kids
Sponsored post by Saint Alphonsus on June 5, 2015
Summertime Family Fun Causes Busy Times for Hospitals
By Steve Milano
Special to the Idaho Statesman
Summer is the season that offers families the most fun and family bonding, but also poses the biggest safety risks, based on the almost endless stream of activities available for parents and children. "Many parents come to me with questions on how to best protect their kids during the summer months," says Dr. Jeffrey Scott, a board-certified family medicine physician with the Saint Alphonsus Medical Group in Meridian, Idaho. "As a father of three myself, I understand their concerns very well. I assure them there are many things parents can do to help make it as safe as possible."
Reviewing family activities and their potential problems at the beginning of the summer will help adults, kids and pets stay safe and secure.
Beating the Heat
Exposure to the sun on a regular basis during the summer increases the risk of skin cancer. Families can decrease this risk by using a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor of at least 30. It's best to apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outdoors so it absorbs into the skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The AAD also recommends a lip balm of at least 30 SPF to help prevent skin cancer on the lips.
"Look for a sunscreen that contains at least one of the following ingredients: ecamsule, avobenzone, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, sulisobenzone, or zinc oxide," recommends Dr. Scott. Sunscreens don't last all day, so Dr. Scott recommends applying lotion every one to two hours, especially when getting in and out of water.
During intense physical activity, people sweat so much it's often too late to properly hydrate if they wait to drink until they're thirsty. People can avoid dehydration, cramps, headaches and other problems if they drink plenty of fluids before, during and after activity.
Lawn and Garden Safety
Hang tools securely on walls above kids' reach and decrease the chance kids can start power items by removing spark plugs or batteries. Keep fuels, pesticides and other chemicals out of the reach of pets and children.
Biking, Skateboarding & Roller Skating
The more time parents and children spend on bicycles, roller skates and skateboards, the more likely they will experience sprains, cuts, scrapes and fractures. Parents should make sure each member of the family has properly fitted helmets, as well as knee and elbow pads.
Water Safety
Approximately 11 people drown each day in the U.S., according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Adults should monitor all water activities involving young children," advises Dr. Scott. "It only takes 2 inches of water for a child to drown, with children drowning in shallow, portable pools each year." Parents can maximize family safety around the water with a few, regular precautions:
- •Always use the buddy system to ensure someone is watching
•Know where rescue equipment is located at any location
•Do not touch a person who has been electrocuted — the current can electrocute the rescuer
•Don't boat without U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets and floats
Safer Fireworks
Adults should read the directions on fireworks to see how they'll fit in with specific outdoor areas. It's a good idea to test fireworks before using them at night to minimize potential problems. Wear goggles when lighting fireworks, have a first aid kit handy and know the location of the nearest medical facility.
Cooking Out
Cookouts are fun for all ages but can cause burns, foodborne illnesses and punctures. Adults should have a specific plan for keeping pets and children away from fires and sharp utensils. Don't allow foods to sit in the sun, especially raw proteins and foods with eggs and dairy in them. Keep burn lotion near any cooking setup.
Nature's Pitfalls
Families should learn about the plants around them that might cause rashes, allergic reactions and other problems. Berries might look tempting to kids, but it's best not to eat any unfamiliar items found outdoors.
Families should keep skin medicines in the house, camper or first aid kit rather than waiting to buy something to treat poison ivy or oak after itching appears. A first aid kit should also include treatments for bug bites and a bug spray. Dr. Scott advises being proactive with tick and flea protection, especially for families with pets.
Insects, especially mosquitoes, breed in standing water, so keep an eye on items around your yard that catch rain water, draining them after each rainfall. "It's a good idea to use a mosquito repellent when participating in outdoor activities, especially in the early morning and later afternoon hours, when mosquitoes are more active," says Dr. Scott. "Using a repellent reduces the risk of getting mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile Virus."
When visiting outdoor areas, be aware of potential encounters with snakes, warns Dr. Scott. Teach children to stay away from reptiles and not tease them or try to catch them. "Most snakes will not bite unless provoked or startled," said Dr. Scott. Carrying a walking stick while hiking can help you fend off a pesky snake.
Learn to Save Lives
"Summer is a good time for adults and teenagers to get active in the community and one priceless skill is learning Basic Life Support with CPR," says Dr. Scott. Consumers can visit the website of the American Red Cross to find local courses, which are often free or low cost.
To contact Dr. Scott, visit www.saintalphonsus.org/Jeffrey-scott.
