Summer is here and children are out on summer break. Our community kids will be going swimming at the pool, playing outside, riding bikes, or attending summer camp. All these activities are a much-needed break from school but hopefully not a full-time break from learning. While summer is a time for fun and relaxation, it’s also important to go over summer safety tips with your kids to make sure they are prepared and stay safe during their break. Parents and guardians have the added responsibility to properly and actively supervise their kids to make sure they remain safe during their summer break.
Summer break can be a lot of fun; however, accidents happen especially because kids are more active during this time of the year. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, a leading organization on children’s safety, during the summer season, children 14 and younger have a high rate of emergency room visits caused by unintentional injuries.
Here are a few tips that can help keep your kids safe during the summer break while having fun:
1. Hydrated. If your kids are playing outside, especially on a hot day, make sure they take frequent water and snack breaks. Children can easily ignore the signs of heat exhaustion, so make sure there is a plan where breaks are required. Create fun and exciting ways to motivate kids to drink water.
2. Outdoor. Accidents can happen in a moment. Assign an adult to actively supervise kids playing outdoors and especially in or near the streets. Children should ride their bikes/bicycles the smart way. Wearing a helmet while riding their bikes is the first rule to prevent bicycle injuries. Make sure bikes and helmets are properly fitted for the child and that they follow smart rider rules. If they are playing near the street, make sure the child as well as the adult supervising them are aware of oncoming traffic. Stay clear of the road to prevent unnecessary accidents that can lead to fatality.
3. Poolside. Drownings happen in an instant. Do not leave young kids unattended in the pool. If you need to take a break, make sure there is an adult actively watching your child/children when they are near or in the water. Keep a watch to prevent drowning. SPHOA have lifeguards on duty, but it still remains the adult's responsibility to supervise their child(ren).
4. Skin Protection. The hottest time of day is around 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. It is also a time when children are ready to play and have fun. Ensure children apply sunscreen to form a layer of protection from direct sun. If sunscreen is used be sure to reapply during these hours. Also, encourage kids to wear a hat, long sleeves, and long pants to help protect their skin. Look for signs of exhaustion and seek shade when necessary!
The SPHOA board members hope you and your family have a wonderful summer, making memories and staying safe!