So summer is almost upon us and as Alice Cooper once told us, ‘school’s out for summer!’
But, although summer holidays should be a time of fun and enjoyment its always advisable to be sure just what your children are doing, where they are and if they are as safe as you can possibly make them.
Getting outside and enjoying some great activities is the goal, so with a little forethought and planning, every child will return to school in the autumn in tip top condition.
Common summer injuries include falls and fractures, burns, poisonings, and drownings. Here are some tips to help keep kids safe.
To prevent sunburn, wear a hat with a brim, sunglasses and sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Re-apply sunscreen and sunscreen lip balm at least every two hours, more often if you have been swimming or sweating as the effectiveness wears off in water.
When taking time out to camp in wild its advisable to know that campfires should be doused with lots of water, never sand, after use. Sand can mask a fire and children might walk through a fire pit if they think it is a sand pit.
Barbecues are a fun time in the great outdoors but should never be operated by children. Treat the barbecue as you would an open flame, and keep children away from the hot metal until it is completely cooled.
Playground equipment taller than five feet should only be used by children age five or older. Never let you children jump off of a swing that is still moving or walk close to another swinging child as a hard smack in the mouth may result!
Trampolines, whether at home or in a playground should only be used by children older than six, by one child at a time and flips or other tricks should only be done while supervised by a qualified instructor.
Poisoning is a big cause of illness during the months when children are out exploring sheds, outhouses and derelict buildings, so just in case your child falls victim to poison keep the following number near your phone: Call the poison centre at 1-866-565-8161.
Children who can’t swim should wear a lifejacket when playing near or in the water.
Older children who are used to swimming in pools should use caution when swimming in open water such as the ocean, lakes, brooks and rivers. Under currents and invisible sand dune drop-offs may catch older children off guard.
Summer should be a time to make great memories. Keep these memories positive by keeping children safe from preventable injuries.
ABB
