by Shannon England-Rice
Child Advocacy Specialist
With the weather warming up and school out, children have more time on their hands to be outside. Safety at Play can definitely become a bigger issue in the summer months. Below are some ideas to help keep your kids safe while at play this summer.
Helmets & All Wheeled Activities
A few days ago, I was driving home and saw two little girls riding their bikes down a very busy street. At first glance, I thought to myself how cute they looked riding together. My second thought was “Where are their helmets?” As I got closer, I was surprised to see the little girls were actually my own two daughters riding their bikes without helmets. As you can imagine, they received a scolding when I pulled over.
Riding bikes, scooters, skateboards and anything with wheels is at the top of many children’s list and my kids are no different. A helmet is the single most effective safety device to reduce head injuries. Helmets are important at any age. Parents setting the example by wearing a helmet can go a long way in helping kids realize how important a helmet is. When fitting a helmet, make sure the helmet sits level on their head, not tilted backward, and when fastening the straps, make sure they fit snugly under the chin.
Sun Exposure/Hydration
Most sun damage occurs as a result of incidental exposure with normal activities, not swimming at the pool or beach. Because of this, children should have sun protection even while playing in the yard. Light weight clothing, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses should be worn for protection from the harmful rays of the sun. Reapplication of sunscreen is important as well. It is recommended a person reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours.
Staying hydrated is also important for children. A well hydrated child is alert, has a shiny wet tongue and urinates regularly. When children are going to be outside for an extended period of time and the weather is hot, water is by far the most refreshing and the best hydrator. Sugary drinks like Gatorade and soda may not hydrate as well and are full of extra calories.
Swimming
Where there is water there is Danger. A small child can drown in as little as an inch of water. Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children in the state of Utah. This does not include the high number of brain injuries water accidents cause each year. Teach children to swim early but never without adult supervisor. Be aware that not all personal floatation devices are recommended because they can give a false sense of security to parents. Unapproved flotation devices can fall off, and or deflate. Personal flotation devices must be used when on a watercraft and it is best to use them when swimming and playing in lakes, rivers and other large bodies of water. Nothing is better than a set of watchful eyes and supervision.
Summertime is here and in full swing. Following these simple steps will help with a safe and fun summer.
