Summer is a great time to be a kid … and a somewhat nerve-racking time to be parent.
Kids think sun. We think sunburns. Kids think fireworks. We think injuries. Kids think water. We think drowning. The list goes on.
But with awareness and a little planning, parents and children can mutually enjoy these precious summer months, because we know that cold and flu season hits in the fall.
Here are some of our tips for a safe and healthy summer:
• Water safety – An average of 25 children and teens drown each year in Washington state. Prevent tragedy by making sure your younger child is supervised around water even if he knows how to swim. Older children and teens should always swim with a buddy, preferably in areas with a lifeguard. Have children wear a US Coast Guard approved life jacket when boating, tubing or water skiing, and consider swimming lessons for children over the age of 4. If you have a pool, make it childproof with a fence that’s at least four feet high.
• Healthy swimming – To prevent recreational water illnesses, including diarrhea, remind your child not to swallow pool and lake water and to practice good hygiene. That includes showering before and after swimming and washing hands after using the bathroom. Parents of young children should check diapers frequently, take their kids on bathroom breaks, and wash their bodies – especially bottoms – with soap before getting in the water.
• Sun sense – Regular use of sunscreens (SPF 15 or higher) on children over the age of six months can reduce their risk of skin cancer by nearly 80 percent. Liberally apply sunscreen to your child’s skin at least 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply it every two hours (more often if your child is swimming or sweating a lot). Have children wear hats, protective clothing and UVA/UVB sunglasses, and remember that they can get sunburned even if it’s cloudy. Keep children well hydrated on warm days.
• Bugs – Many insect repellents, including those with up to 10 percent DEET, are safe and effective for use on children over two months of age. Use repellents approved for children and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Another way to beat the bugs is to wear light-colored, long sleeved shirts, pants and socks and avoid stagnant water and other areas where insects nest.
• Food safety – Sultry temperatures and outdoor eating can increase the risk of food-borne illnesses. Avoid foods that are undercooked or have been left out for more than two hours. Have children wash their hands before eating.
• Fireworks – Don’t allow young children to play with fireworks (yes, even sparklers), and closely supervise their use by older children. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission also recommends that users obey local laws.
Light fireworks outdoors and out of range of houses, people and flammable materials, including dry grass and shrubs. Keep a bucket of water nearby just in case.
Don’t try to relight fireworks that don’t work. Douse them with water and throw them away.
Don’t position your body directly over a firework while lighting it.
Never light fireworks in a container or use homemade fireworks.
Store unused fireworks in a dry, cool place, and keep them well away from those you’re lighting.
One more thing, allow your child some down time (no camps, play-dates, or scheduled activities) so she can explore, enjoy and just be a kid. Because summer will be over before you know it.
Debra C. Ronnholm is president of Seattle’s Childhaven.
