Summer is a fun time for kids. They are out of school and want to play outside, go swimming and travel with family. Pediatric Partners of Augusta wants your children to have a fun – and safe – summer. Here are some tips to make sure your kids enjoy their summer to the fullest without injury.
Safety When Swimming
- Always watch your kids when they are in or around the water. If there are groups of parents and children, make sure a responsible adult is always designated to keep an eye on children in the water.
- If your child needs a swimming aid, use only U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets or personal floatation devices. Water wings, inflatable floats, pool noodles, and similar items are fun, but they are not to be used as personal floatation devices.
- Teach your children that swimming in a pool is different than swimming in open water like a river, the ocean, or a lake.
- If your child is 1 year old or older, consider swim lessons.
Travel Safely
- Before you go anywhere, double- and triple-check your child’s car seat. Older children – and adults – should always wear seatbelts.
- Use a booster seat with the vehicle’s lap and shoulder safety belts until your child passes the Safety Belt Fit Test.
- Never leave your child alone in a car, not even for a minute. Heatstroke is the leading cause of non-crash, vehicle-related deaths for children.
Stay Safe Outside
- Always make sure your children have the appropriate clothing and gear for the conditions.
- Teach your kids a few first aid basics such as what a tick looks like, how to spot poison ivy, and when to wear a bandage.
- Teach children not to play with matches and lighters.
- Make sure your kids stay hydrated and use plenty of sunscreen.
Stay Safe This Summer!
These are just a few general safety tips; this is by no means an all-encompassing list. If you have questions about summertime safety for children of any age, Pediatric Partners of Augusta is happy to help.
