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.healthychildren.org
