Summer is the favorite time of year for most youngsters because school is out, there’s no homework or tests to prepare for, and all they have to look forward to is weeks of care-free fun in the sun.
If only it were that simple.
All parents should encourage their children to play outside and have fun this summer, and also teach their youngsters that summer brings with it potential serious dangers that kids must be aware of and know how to avoid.
Some of the greatest dangers facing children can be found on playground equipment. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that each year emergency departments nationwide will see more than 20,000 children ages 14 and younger due to playground-related traumatic brain injuries.
Parents are advised to familiarize themselves and their kids with the risks of playground equipment and discuss how to use the equipment safely.
Heat stroke is a serious problem in the summer months and children are some of the most at risk and susceptible individuals to experience it. Parents should have children take frequent breaks while playing outside to focus on time either inside in the air conditioning or in the shade. Staying hydrated is an absolute must as the temperatures rise. Consistent consumption of water and sports drinks that provide electrolytes that help replace lost salt and retain fluid is an absolute must.
Signs of heat exhaustion include a rapid pulse, red, hot or dry skin, dizziness, confusion and a headache. To cool someone quickly, immerse the body in cool water, place the individual in a cool shower or wrap them in a cool, wet blanket.
According to the National Safety Council, approximately nine people drown in the United States every day, so taking precautions with children around water in the summertime is a necessity.
Good tips around the water include never go swimming alone, have your children swim in areas supervised by a life guard and make sure that everyone’s skill level is equal to the body of water they’re entering. Remember, swimming in a pool is much different than swimming in a lake or river, where more strength and skill is required to deal with waves, currents or undertows.
Parents should arrange for swimming lessons for their children as early as age 1. It’s wise for parents to always have a first-aid kit handy, learn CPR and never take their eyes off of their children when they’re in or near water.
To avoid sunburn and skin cancer, it’s a good idea to use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher whenever your children are exposed to the sun. For extended periods in the sunshine, be sure to use a water-resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. It’s also recommended that you liberally apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours. You’ll want to keep newborns away from the sun and apply sunscreen to babies over the age of six months.
With many children now using cell phones, you’ll want to alert them to the recent and dramatic increase in distracted walking accidents caused in large part to individuals paying attention to their phones while walking. The best advice is to avoid looking at cell phones while walking, and not just on sidewalks and intersections. More than half of distracted walking injuries occur in our own homes, proving that we need to stay aware of our surroundings, whether they’re familiar or not.
If you have concerns or questions about your child’s health or are in need of a primary care physician for yourself or someone else, please call 317-880-8666 or visit www.eskenazihealth.edu/doctors.
Dr. Nydia Nunez-Estrada
Family Medicine Physician at Eskenazi Health