How to Enjoy Summer With Your Children, Safely: Summertime Can Present Real Dangers

Summer and the safety of your children must go hand in hand, in order for you to enjoy them both thoroughly. Regardless of the age of your children, knowing that they are safe, will help to give you peace of mind and make your life more enjoyable..  

The article entitled “Summer safety for kids” suggests that

“The fun and relaxation of summer can be deceptive when it comes to safety. Kids are exposed to more dangers because they tend to be more active.”

This is true. Protecting children during the summer months is every parent or guardian’s responsibility. It has to take priority over any personal enjoyment. With this in mind, consider the following ten safety tips that will help to ensure the safety of your children during the summertime.

Showing love as care, concern and compassion for your children:

You love your children and they need to know it, particularly in the summertime. They know you want to enjoy the summer months by working in your garden, going berry picking, engaging in projects like canning and freezing fresh fruits and vegetables, attending summer events and other pastimes like growing flowers, roses, etc.

While these are all important to you, the safety of your children is always more important. Consistently showing your care, concern and compassion for your children during the summer assures them of the reality of your love for them. 

Plan your own enjoyment of the summer months in such a way that your children can have fun too, even if it means having them do something else while you go kayaking, canoeing, hiking, cycling, etc. Planning family events with other family members lets everyone know they are part of the family. At times, including other neighbors helps to keep their children safe, too.

Provide appropriate supervision for your children:

Appropriate and adequate supervision of your children is vital during the summer months, as it is easy for any child to wander off, get lost or get into different kinds of trouble, when not properly supervised during the summer months. Regardless of the ages of your children, ensure their safety by making certain they have responsible supervision, at all times. While this may appear demanding, it is important so that you can truly enjoy what you want to do. Teach them the importance of heeding your instructions, as well as that of other designated guardians or supervisors like baby sitters, at all times.

Dressing appropriately for the weather:

You and your children, regardless of their ages, need to be dressed appropriately for the weather, which is subject to change quickly in the summer. While it is not always easy to prepare for every possible situation, watch the weather forecast on a regular basis. When planning for outings like picnics and sports events, pack appropriate rain gear, as well as a change of clothing and shoes for everyone. Remember that emergencies happen suddenly, so be prepared. Teach your children what to do in case of thunderstorms, floods, tornadoes, etc. When they know what to do in emergencies, you are more likely to be able to relax and enjoy what you love doing.

Summer dietary management:

Dietary management with respect to children of all ages in the summertime is not always easy, as children can become finicky, particularly when it is hot; so can adults. Everyone needs adequate nutrition that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Make certain that milk and other dairy products are cool and fresh. Meat products can turn bad quickly. Note expiry dates carefully and pack meat products and fish with ice, when going on picnics, trips, etc. Do not change the diets of children in the summertime. Be aware of possible food allergies and remember that salt is extremely important for everyone during the summer.

Adequate and appropriate hydration:

Ensuring adequate and appropriate hydration for yourself and your children in the summertime is vital. Encourage your children to drink extra fluids, particularly when it is hot. Avoid unusual kinds of drinks, especially anything that might turn sour or give anyone an upset stomach. Do not serve excess, high sugar content drinks, but rather encourage children to drink extra water, but first, make certain that the drinking water is safe. Do not serve children alcoholic beverages, tea or coffee. Lemonade or iced tea may be more appropriate for older children.

Protection from the sun:

Appropriate protection from the sun is vital for you and your children in the summertime, as sunburns can occur quickly. Have your children wear hats and appropriate cotton clothing which breathes, especially when they are outside in the bright sun and near the water. Proper application of sun block lotion or sunscreen can help prevent serious sunburns. Make certain that they avoid long hours in direct sunlight or in the water.

Protection from insects:

You and your children need insect protection during that summertime, particularly from mosquitoes, black flies and sand flies. Note that there may be insects like bees and hornets that you or they are allergic to, so be wary. Seek immediate medical care when necessary. Carrying an allergy medication is generally a good idea too.

Water safety:

Children should not be alone in the water. A buddy system often works well for older children, while all younger children need constant supervision by an adult or responsible teenager. Learn basic CPR and encourage children to participate in water safety oriented programs for swimming and boating. Spend quality time with them when they are in or near the water.

Outdoor safety:

Children can get into difficulty quickly when playing with others outdoors, partly because they get excited and lose their sense of direction and caution. For example, they may not watch for traffic when they are cycling, so teach them cycling safety. Teach your children fire safety measures, as they may attempt to build campfires, without realizing the dangers involved. Around campfires, make certain they have proper supervision.

Note that there are many other dangers associated with being outdoors, like falls, when skateboarding or climbing, etc. Other children’s pets or neighborhood animals may present a problem for children who are playing with them. Teach children not to eat strange berries or touch anything that might cause a rash like nettles, poison ivy or poison oak. Do not allow them to go near wild animals like raccoons. Keeping a well packed, first aid kit handy is always an excellent idea. Teaching first aid measures to your children is important. 

Protection from strangers:

Children are naturally friendly with others and often respond in a positive way to strangers, who could prove to be potential predators. Encourage children to avoid strangers and to report them to a responsible adult immediately, particularly if they appear to be bothering or harassing them. Instruct them never to go anywhere with strangers or get into their vehicles. Report any untoward activity by strangers to security guards or police officers.

While there are many concerns with regard to the safety of your children in the summertime, these basic tips will help to ensure that your summer is enjoyable too.