Summer Safety Tips for Parents

There’s nothing like the first day of summer break when you’re a kid. The joy and freedom of endless sunny days bring opportunities for fun, exploration, and new experiences. However, as parents, ensuring that your children enjoy a safe summer is crucial. At Fairhope Pediatrics, we want to help you make the most of this wonderful season with these pediatrician-approved safety tips.

Avoid Sunburn

One of the primary concerns during summer is protecting your child from sunburn. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so it’s essential to take precautions. Make sure your child wears sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply it every two hours, or more often if they are swimming or sweating. In addition to sunscreen, protective clothing, such as hats and long-sleeve shirts, can provide an extra layer of defense against harmful UV rays.

Be Mindful of the Heat

Summer heat can be intense, and it’s important to ensure your child can stay cool. Make sure they have access to shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces and encourage them to take frequent breaks from outdoor activities. Heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, can be dangerous, so it’s crucial to recognize the signs, which include excessive sweating, weakness, and dizziness.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key during the hot summer months. Children can become dehydrated quickly, especially when they are active. Make sure they drink plenty of water throughout the day. Encourage them to carry a water bottle and take regular sips, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Watch Out for Bugs

Summer is also the season for bugs, and insect bites can quickly turn a fun day into an uncomfortable experience. Bug spray is safe and recommended for children aged 6 months and up. Apply it to exposed skin and clothing, but avoid hands, eyes, and mouth. Additionally, be aware of tick-prone areas and check your child’s skin and scalp thoroughly after playing outside.

Don’t Take Risks

Safety should always come first. Ensure your child wears a helmet when biking, skating, or riding a scooter. Water safety is paramount—never leave children unattended near water, whether it’s a pool, lake, or ocean. Swimming lessons are a great way to enhance water safety skills. Lastly, leave fireworks to the professionals. Fireworks can be extremely dangerous, and attending public displays is a much safer way to enjoy them.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your child’s summer is not only fun but also safe. If you have any questions about how to tailor these safety tips to your family’s specific needs, don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule a chat with the pediatric safety experts at Fairhope Pediatrics. We’re here to support you and ensure your family enjoys a happy and healthy summer.

Stay safe and enjoy the summer season!