Summer Safety for Kids

Summer Safety for Kids
Bend Memorial Clinic Pediatrics

Summer is enjoyable for adults and kids alike, but with summer come increased hazards. Whether your kids are at home, at summer camp, or if you’re going on a family vacation, it’s important to keep them safe and healthy. We’ve all probably heard these tips before, but now is a great time to keep them top of mind to ensure you and your kids get the most out of summertime.

Fun in the Sun
We all know that summertime in central Oregon brings lots of sunshine and warm weather, so while the kids are outside playing be sure they are protected with sunscreen. Look for one with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, as well as one that protects against UVA and UVB rays. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends kids limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If kids must be outside during this time, be sure to include sunglasses and hats when possible and reapply sunscreen frequently.

Fun in the Water
A summertime favorite for kids is playing in the water. Be sure your child knows how to swim and water safety. Always have an adult in charge and actively watching. It’s also important to wear life jackets on boats and when swimming or playing in or near bodies of water.

Fun on the roads and trails
Helmets provide the best protection against injury. Whether your child is riding a bike, scooter or skateboard, it’s imperative that they wear a helmet. Wearing a helmet prevents nearly 85% of head injures from crashes.

Fluids and staying hydrated
Adequate fluid intake is important anytime, but especially when your kids are playing outside in the hot summer sun. It’s also important to set time limits for playing outside and especially during sports activities. Take time to have them stop what they are doing, rest and rehydrate.

Pediatricians recommend that children get at least 30-60 minutes of physical activity every day. Summertime is a great way to get active with your kids and enjoy a walk or a skip, swimming, horseback riding or hitting the local park.

Here is our list of the top 5 things to do or see this summer in central Oregon:
1)  High Desert Museum
2)  SHARC aquatic center or Juniper Pool
3)  Munch n Music or Munch n Movies
4)  Biking
5)  Big Cultus Lake