The weather is warming up, and it’s the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy the heat! Spring and summer in New Jersey means spending lots of time with friends and family on the beach and in the sun. When you’ve got kids to look after, it’s a great idea to be aware of some helpful safety tips. It can be difficult enough just to keep track of your kids when you’re at the ocean or a large pool. Keep these 5 tips in mind this spring and summer to help them stay safe.
1. Keep Kids Cool
Heat can creep up unexpectedly—particularly with smaller children. Infants and kids up to 4 years old are actually at the greatest risk for heat-related illness. Older kids may be affected as well, if they’re doing lots of running around in the yard or neighborhood in hot weather.
Dressing your kids in loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing can help immensely. It’s also a good idea to have outdoor activities in the mornings and evenings when the sun is less intense. If you find your kids are getting overheated, bring them indoors for a cool shower. If serious symptoms of heat-related illnesses pop up, take them to the doctor immediately.
2. Protect Them from the Sun
Harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause serious and lasting damage. When you spend the entire day out at the beach or in the pool, applying sunscreen regularly is imperative, but it’s also an easy thing to let slip your mind. Set a timer on your phone if you have a hard time keeping track of how often you and your kids have reapplied.
Hats are also a great way to protect everyone’s heads, where the skin may be more sensitive.
3. Help Them Stay Afloat
Water safety is crucial for those who spend tons of time at the beach. Teaching your kids to swim is one of the best ways to help protect them from drowning in the long run. Formal swim lessons—even and especially for infants—can make a huge difference. Watch your kids closely while they’re in or near the water, even if they already know how to swim.
Learning CPR might not only help save your child if something goes wrong, but it’s an incredible tool to have to help others in need as well.
4. Beware of Bugs
Use an effective bug repellent anytime your kids are playing outdoors, and make sure you check the kids for ticks regularly. Bees are attracted to floral fragrances and floral-patterned clothing, so try to steer clear of that for your kids while they’re spending a ton of time outdoors. Open containers of food and drink can also attract bees.
If a bee stings your child, use a cold compress and hydrocortisone cream to reduce swelling. If the symptoms appear to be a more severe allergic reaction like hives, dizziness or difficulty breathing, seek medical help right away.
5. Keep Your Yard Safe
If you have a trampoline or any playground equipment in your yard, make sure it’s in working order before your kids go outside to play. If your kids are smaller, make sure to use gates for the stairs if you have a porch.
According to lawyers in Lawrenceville, if your child has friends over and someone is injured on your property, you could be held liable. Double-check the safety of your yard for the safety of your own children as well as for the safety of others.
This post was written by Donna Fitzgerald and provided by our sponsor.