National Safety Month

It may not feel like it but summer is here!

June is a great month to enjoy the outdoors and is a good time to encourage safe behaviors during National Safety Month.  Whether planning a vacation or playing in the front yard, it is important to stay safe. 

The National Safety Council (NSC) provides some valuable safety measures families can take to prevent injuries. 

If siblings or neighborhood kids are running around the house or in the yard, help prevent tripping or falling by moving obstacles or securing rugs. In the home, find storage for the hazardous materials and locate all danger zones to avoid poisoning, burns, and choking. Help encourage your family, friends and neighbors to get involved by setting examples in their own home.

Going for a dip in the swimming pool or spending a day at the lake? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers some tips on how to keep your family safe near water. To prevent sunburn, have lightweight pants & shirts as well as hats within reach to provide shade. Sunscreen should be applied throughout the day if exposed to the sun for long periods of time and reapplied if swimming. Avoid overexposure to the sun during the peak hours, approximately 10am-4pm.

Whether it’s swimming at a pool or in open water, always have an adult nearby.  Inform your family of water safety, including knowing where to find rescue equipment and practicing the buddy system. Taking the family boating? Test life jackets for the proper fit, based on the child’s weight.

Jumping on the trampoline? Although this can be a fun activity for the neighborhood, the AAP states that there is a great risk of head and neck injuries, sprains or strains, fractures, scrapes and bruises. To help ensure safety, designate an adult to supervise at all times. Check equipment often and repair or replace as needed.

If your child is exercising or spending long hours outdoors, be aware of the signs of heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps and know where to seek medical attention. These symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation, or staggering.

With these resources in mind, you can keep your kids safe while still enjoying the summer.
 
 
RESOURCES:
http://www.nsc.org/safety_home/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Pages/HomeandRecreationalSafety.aspx

http://www.healthychildren.org