Summer + Safety = Fun!

Kids are out of school so it’s time to start having fun!
Summer means more free time and outdoor activities like swimming, bike riding, and playground visits.
Parents, this is the time to be extra alert. Outdoor play, hot weather, and water activities raise important safety issues. Your family can help avoid a trip to the emergency room by following these safety tips.

Bike Safety

	Bike riding is exercise and fun all rolled into one, but safety is most important.
	Use headlights, taillights, and reflectors when riding at night.
	Wear a helmet! It’s the law, and can prevent head injuries.
	Follow all traffic rules by paying attention to signs, traffic lights, and street or sidewalk markings.
	Ride single file. Don’t ride side by side on the road.

Swimming Safety

	Swimming is fun, refreshing, and needs to be supervised.
	Children should swim ONLY with adult supervision (even if they are good swimmers).
	When swimming in public areas, obey all rules and posted signs.
	Don’t swim during a thunderstorm or lightning storm.
	Choose swimming pools and beaches that are protected by a lifeguard.

Sun Protection

	The sun is strongest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., so try to stay out of direct sunlight during this time.
	For children over 6 months old, use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
	Apply a thick coat of sunscreen at least 30-45 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours.
	Use sunscreen even if it’s cloudy or you are sitting in the shade.
	Babies less than 6 months old should not be exposed to the sun.

Bug Bite Safety

	Safe and effective insect repellents include those with DEET, citronella and soybean oil.
	Avoid areas where bugs nest or fly around, such as uncovered foods and gardens with flowers.
	Spray repellent on your hands and carefully rub it on your necks and ears, but stay away from your mouth and eyes.
	Stay indoors or wear long-sleeved shirts and light colored clothing in the early morning and early evening.
	These are the worst times for bugs.

Firework Safety

	Talk to your child about being safe around fireworks and point out potential dangers.
	Tell children NOT to play with fireworks. Only adults should light them.
	Only buy legal fireworks. Check your local police department for a list of these.
	Keep sparklers away from your face, clothing, and hair.
	Play safe and don’t point or throw fireworks at anyone. Remember to keep fireworks away from your home, brush, and leaves.

For more information about Holtz Children’s Hospital, visit HoltzChildrensHospital.org, or call 305-585-KIDS.