Summer Safety Tips

Keep your family safe this summer with simple summer safety tips advised by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Fireworks Safety

Know and obey all laws regarding fireworks. Always report any illegal use of fireworks.
Children should never use fireworks without adult supervision.
Read instructions to make sure fireworks are age appropriate.
Even “safe” fireworks such as sparklers can reach over 1000 degrees fahrenheit.
Remember, fire and fireworks can result in severe burns, blindness, scars, and even death.

Avoid areas where insects may nest, such as stagnant pools of water or gardens with blooming flowers.
Use insect repellent when outdoors to avoid harmful bites or stings.
Use insect repellent containing DEET to prevent insect-related illnesses. Ticks can transmit Lyme Disease and mosquitoes can transmit West Nile and Zika viruses.
If you are outside in the evening and mosquitoes are present, cover up with long sleeve shirts and pants.

Choose playgrounds with safety-tested mats or loose-fill materials such as rubber, sand, or wood chips.
Examine the playground equipment to make sure it has been carefully maintained.
Any swinging seats on the playground should be rubber, plastic, or canvas.
Never allow children to attach to ropes, jump ropes, or leases. These can be choking hazards on the playground.
Remember that rubber, plastic, and metal can get very hot in the summer, especially when directly under the sun.
Do not allow your child to play barefoot on the playground.
Parents should supervise their children at all times while they are on the playground.

When bicycling, helmets should always be worn, even if the trip is close to home. Many injuries occur on driveways and sidewalks.
Helmets should be worn level, and be securely fashioned. If the helmet can tip forward or backwards, or if it is too snug, it needs to be readjusted.
Make sure your child’s bike is the right size. Oversized bikes are extremely dangerous.
Be sure you child can comfortably ride a 2-wheeler before taking off the training wheels.

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