Smart summer safety tips: A parent’s guide to sun, water and heat

Summertime brings endless opportunities for family fun, from poolside barbecues to beach vacations and backyard adventures—but it also brings safety challenges for little ones.

Whether your kids are splashing in the pool, playing at the park or just soaking up the sun, it’s important to take steps to protect them from common summer hazards.

Every parent wants their child to have a happy, carefree break. Here are the essential summer safety tips to help you keep your children safe and healthy all season long.

Summer safety tip 1: Protect your child’s skin from the sun

The summer sun can be harsh, especially for children. Protecting your family from sunburn is one of the most important summer safety measures you can take. To help protect your child from the summer sun:

• Apply sunscreen any time your child is heading outside, not just during a visit to the pool.
• Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Mineral sunscreens work immediately after applying and are much less likely to cause burning or stinging. They are also better for children with eczema and sensitive skin.
• Dress your children in loose, light-colored, lightweight clothing, hats and sunglasses when possible.
• Find shady spots during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, and right after swimming or if your child has been sweating.

Summer safety tip 2: Know the signs of heat exhaustion

Hot Texas summers can be tough on little bodies. Children overheat much faster than adults, which means they can go from feeling fine to overheated in a matter of minutes. If your child seems cranky, tired or just not themselves when playing outside in the sun, offer them a break.

Heat exhaustion or dehydration can sneak up quickly but can be prevented when you know what to watch for.

Signs of heat stroke include:

• Confusion
• Passing out
• No longer sweating and feeling very hot to the touch.

If your child experiences any of these, they should be taken out of the heat immediately, and you should call 911.

Summer safety tip 3: Water safety

Pools, lakes and splash pads are summer favorites and are always a great way to cool down. But before you jump in the pool or dip a toe in a lake, it’s important to take extra measures to keep your children safe. Here are a few ways to keep your kids safe in water:

• Always have your children wear life jackets when boating or playing in open water, especially if they’re still learning to swim.
• Enroll your children in swim lessons when they’re ready.
• Establish a “water watcher” to maintain constant focus and attention whenever infants, toddlers or children who can’t swim or are just learning to swim are near water.
• Never leave children unattended, even for a second.
• Use fences or barriers around pools to prevent accidents.

Summer safety tip 4: Stay hydrated

When it comes to warmer weather, hydration is key. Children can get dehydrated quickly, especially when they’re running around outside. Encourage them to drink water regularly and establish a “hydration routine” to make sure children drink before they are thirsty.

Make sure children—especially when playing sports and sweating—get a balanced hydration drink with electrolytes, such as sports drinks.

Try to stay away from fruit juices, soda or caffeinated beverages that can worsen dehydration. Look for innovative ways to boost their water intake, such as a fun water bottle or snacks that are high in water content, such as watermelon or cucumber.

Summer safety tip 5: Never leave your child in a hot car

Never leave a child alone in a car, not even for a few minutes. The temperature can rise quickly, meaning only a few minutes can make a difference. Make it a habit to always check the backseat or place something you’ll need (like your phone or purse) in the back as a reminder. If you see a child alone in a car, call 911 immediately.

Summer safety tip 6: Ride safely

Bikes, scooters and skateboards are great ways for children to stay active—but helmets are key. Make sure your child wears a properly fitted helmet every time they ride, and knee and elbow pads can also help prevent scrapes and bruises.

Helmets shouldn’t move more than 1 inch in any direction, and no more than one to two fingers should fit underneath the chin strap. Also ensure you teach your child to follow traffic rules and stay alert when riding near busy streets or driveways.

Summer safety tip 7: Prevent bug bites

Mosquitoes, ticks and other bugs can put a damper on summer fun. To prevent bug bites from happening in the first place, always apply bug repellent before heading outdoors and follow the directions carefully. For children under 2 months, protective clothing and netting should be used instead of repellents.

You can also dress your child in long sleeves and pants when possible, especially in wooded areas or places with tall grass. After outdoor play, check for ticks—especially behind the ears, under arms and around the waist.

Summer safety tip 8: Firework safety

Fireworks, especially around the Fourth of July, may be exciting, but they also can be very dangerous for children. Even sparklers can reach temperatures hot enough to cause burns. It’s best to leave fireworks to the professionals. Don’t give sparklers, bottle rockets or any other type of firework to children, and practice firework safety.

Summer safety tip 9: Stay safe on the playground and trampolines

Playgrounds and trampolines are great for burning energy, but they can also lead to injuries. Check that playground equipment is in good condition and not too hot to touch, especially when the temperature is high. Supervise your child while they play and teach them to take turns and use equipment safely. If you have a trampoline at home, use safety nets and padding.

Summer should be a time of joy, not worry. With a few simple precautions, you can help your child enjoy the season safely. These summer safety tips are a great place to start—but if you have questions or concerns, your primary care doctor or pediatrician is always a good resource.

If you don’t have one for your child, find a pediatrician near you.