Due to the closure and cancellations of many summer programs in response to the coronavirus pandemic, more children are expected to be home or in the care of grandparents this summer. And parents might be working at the same time, so lapses in supervision are a concern. With that said, now is a great time to go over some summer safety tips for kids, courtesy of the CDC, that can save lives.
- Water Safety
The CDC reports that drownings are the leading cause of injury death among children ages 1 to 4. Homes with a pool should have a four-sided fence around them, and if you have small children in your home, you should consider other precautions. Be sure children are always being supervised while in the water, and getting swim lessons for your toddler can also be beneficial, as they will learn ways to get back to the side in case they fall into the pool.
- Watch Out for the Heat
Heat-related illnesses are also a great danger to kids four years old and younger. The most dangerous situation, of course, is a hot car. Be sure to enact safeguards so that you are never in danger of leaving a child strapped inside of a car before leaving it. If they are playing outside, be sure they are taking frequent water and shade breaks.
- Sunburns
Use a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 on every part of a child’s body that can be exposed to the sun, and be sure to re-apply every two hours, or after getting wet.
- Bug-Bite Prevention
Check your yard and other areas where children would be playing for areas that can be susceptible to mosquito and other bug breeding. Use an effective insect repellent on children as well, especially at dusk.
- Home and Playground Safety
If you have a swing set or any other play areas for kids, be sure to inspect them to make sure that they are still structurally sound, and check that the surfaces under the playground are safe, soft, and well-maintained. If there are any stairs in and around your home, make sure they are protected by a gate if you are caring for small children.