6 Ways to Keep Kids Extra Safe This Summer
| 3 min read
Summer is all about fun! Though the focus is on having a good time, you have to make sure you’re doing it safely. Whether you’re spending a day at the beach or going on a summer hike, there are simple precautions you can take to lower the risk of injury. June is National Safety month, so now is the perfect time to take a minute and learn some new ways to keep your kids safe all summer long:
- On a bike ride: Little ones should always ride with a helmet on, an adult by their side and reflective gear. Be sure to ride on the sidewalk whenever possible or the right side of the road if a sidewalk isn’t available (make sure to ride behind your kids so you can keep an eye on them and warn them of anything they should be aware of). Teach your kids the proper “stop, look and listen” techniques (stop before crossing the street, look for cars and listen for anything oncoming) as well as hand signals to visually communicate a turn to other commuters.
- At a picnic: To avoid food spoiling or illness, be sure to properly refrigerate You’ll also want to have antibacterial hand wipes for a quick clean up and option to wash your children’s hands.
- On a trail: When exploring nature, be responsible by taking popular paths that are easy for little feet to walk on, don’t let little ones venture off alone and have a map with you so that you know exactly where you are. It’s also a good idea to tell someone where you’re going in case of an emergency and check the weather for possible dangerous conditions. In your pack, make sure to have long sleeves for everyone, sunscreen, bug spray to repel mosquitos and ticks, plenty of water and snacks.
- At the beach: It seems harmless to let your little one dig a huge hole in the sand, but can actually be dangerous. Recent findings show that holes can collapse on kids, causing serious injuries and, in some cases, even death. And make sure you watch them when they head out to swim. Join your children when they go out for a swim for their safety.
- In the car: There are a lot of car accidents during the months of July, August and September. Be sure to remain an undistracted driver (that means no texting while driving, changing the music too much or being overly involved in what’s going on in the backseat) and buckle kids in using the appropriate car seats and seat belts.
- At the pool: Even if a lifeguard is on duty, it’s a parent or guardian’s responsibility to keep kids safe at the pool. Keep an eye on where they are and don’t let them swim unless they know how. It’s also a good idea to go over the rules with them, like not diving into shallow waters or running on the wet ground.
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Photo credit: Daddy-David
