6 ways to keep your child safe this summer

Follow me on Twitter @drClaire It’s summer — time for vacations, summer camp, outdoor activities, and all sorts of other fun. Some of those fun summer activities, though, can have health and safety risks. Here are six things you can do to help be sure that everyone’s summer memories are good ones: Use sunscreen. This sounds obvious, but often we still forget to use it. We remember when we go to the beach or pool, but we don’t always think of it when we go sightseeing, do gardening, go to an outdoor event, or just play outside. If your child is going to be out in the sun, use sunscreen. Use a sunscreen that is water resistant, at least SPF 30, and blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Cover all exposed skin, and remember to reapply every couple of hours, sooner if your child has been in the water. Not only does this protect your child from the discomfort of sunburn, it may prevent future skin cancer. Make sure your child is always supervised around water. Never rely on flotation or safety devices such as lifejackets; while they can be helpful and should be used whenever recommended (like when kayaking or on other boats), there is simply nothing that takes the place of constant supervision. Drowning can be very quiet; if you wait to hear your child yell for help, you will miss it. Summer can be a good time to improve your child’s swimming skills. While even good swimmers can drown, all children should learn to swim; check out swimming lessons in your area. And remember, if y...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Children's Health Parenting Safety Source Type: blogs