3 Ways to Keep Your Kids Safe as They Play in the Sun This Summer

Summer is a time for having fun in the sun with your kids, but it is easy to let simple safety tips slip our minds. Read on to learn about three ways to keep your kids safe as they play in the sun this summer. 

Use Sunscreen

Sunscreen is vital to your child’s health. Once viewed as optional, sunscreen has been proven to help prevent skin cancer. CeraVe reminds us that sunscreen is just as important on an overcast and drizzly day because water droplets magnify UV rays. Severe sunburns significantly increase your child’s risk of skin cancer and can lead to heat exhaustion. Use a full spectrum sunscreen and if you prefer a more natural approach, use physical sunscreens that contain zinc and titanium dioxide. Reapply every hour and remember that most sunscreens take 15 minutes to become effective so apply before you are exposed to the sun. If your child will be in the water, make sure to get an appropriate sunscreen.

Keep Them Cool

Heat exhaustion is more common than you may think. It can creep up on you when you are busy having fun in the sun. Brauns Law warns that if heat exhaustion goes untreated and the body rises above 104, a child can suffer from heatstroke; a condition that can cause brain damage and is life-threatening. Signs of heat exhaustion to look for are muscle weakness, cramping, dark urine, and signs of confusion. If you find yourself or your child feeling overheated, go inside. Air conditioning and other cooling methods are your best friend. Remembering just a few simple steps can help prevent your child from overheating. Wearing a white hat will reflect the sun’s light off of your child. Choose hats and fabrics with built-in SPF, use umbrellas, and remember to hydrate consistently throughout the day. 

Prevent Drowning

Drowning, a leading cause of death for children, is something that can happen in your own backyard and even in your own bathtub. Thankfully, there are many steps you can take to minimize your child’s risks such as using fences around your pool. The Deep End explains that most pool fences should be about 48 inches tall with gates that swing outward. Installing a fence is an important part of pool safety and drowning prevention. Additionally, if your child is between ages 1 and 4, have them use a life vest even if they know how to swim. Learn CPR at your local library or community center and never take your eyes off of your child.

Sunburn, overheating, and drowning can happen within minutes. Prevention is the key to your keeping your child safe this summer. Taking precautions will be worth the effort so you can relax and have some family fun in the sun.

Read these other articles for more great information!

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• Is Society Creating Behavioral Problems in Our Children?