Summer Safety Topics

When summer arrives, everyone wants to get outside. People are busy at work and play under the summer sun and the smell of barbecue grilling fills the air. You can enjoy to the fullest if you just pay attention to a few safety basics.

The garden, beach and pool all are more enjoyable when you keep safety in mind. Take care to make summer fun safe for your whole family.

Safe Kids

• Make summer kid safe.

  Summer time is play time. Kids are out of school and outside playing ball, swimming, biking and hiking. The summer also is a time when children wind up in the emergency room due to accidents, so it is important that parents make sure children play safely.

  Children should always wear helmets when biking and skating and protective gear when playing sports like baseball and soccer. Keep your children safe on the playground by always having an adult present to watch out for them.

  The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that playgrounds have a soft ground cover such as bark, rubber, or wood chips around all play equipment to cushion the impact of falls. Always make sure your children are using age-appropriate playground equipment.

Sun Exposure

• Protect your family from the sun.

  The summer sun is inviting, but it also poses a danger to your health. Sunburns, dehydration and skin cancer all can occur from over-exposure to the sun's heat and damaging ultraviolet radiation. Some simple safety precautions can protect you and your family from the sun.

  The U.S. Department of Heath and Human Services recommends limiting exposure to the sun during the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., as this will minimize exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation. During these hours, the sun's radiation is at its strongest levels.

  Use a broad spectrum, high Sun Protection Factor (SPF) sunscreen and wear light-weight, protective clothing when working in the sun. A broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses can help protect your face and eyes from the harmful rays.

  Good hydration is important, especially for children and the elderly. Prevent dehydration by drinking cool water or mineral-rich sports drinks before going outside, and regularly while you are outdoors. University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that infants and small children be given liquids such as Pedialyte to maintain electrolyte balance and prevent dehydration.

Water Safety

• Practice water safety.

  Summer is the time when many families head to the pool or beach. Boats and canoes move across the lakes and rivers, while children and adults splash and play along the shore.

  Every person in a boat or canoe needs to wear a personal floatation device that fits properly. According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, more than 90 percent of all boating fatalities could have been prevented by the proper use of life jackets.

  Never leave children alone in or near water ,because a child can drown in a matter of seconds. An adult should be in the water, with the children in reach, when swimming. Always swim with a buddy, and know your limits. If you get tired, stop and rest for a while. Drink water to keep hydrated, and never use alcohol while swimming.