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Essential Summer Safety Tips for Your Kids

A baby in a white onesie and sun hat is sitting on a striped blanket at the beach, with a background of the sea and people in the distance
Essential Summer Safety Tips for Your Kids
Summer Fun, Safely Done

Understanding Summer Safety for Kids

Summer is a time for fun and outdoor activities, but it’s also important to keep your children safe from potential hazards. At Monadnock Community Hospital, we provide expert advice to help you ensure your child’s safety during the summer months. From sun protection to water safety, our pediatric team offers comprehensive tips for a worry-free summer.

Sun Protection

  • Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to your child’s skin 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Dress your child in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to protect against UV rays.
  • Seek Shade: Encourage your child to play in shaded areas, especially during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Water Safety

  • Supervise at All Times: Always keep a close watch on your child when they are in or near water. Never leave them unattended, even for a moment.
  • Learn CPR: Knowing CPR can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. Consider taking a CPR course if you haven’t already.
  • Use Life Jackets: Ensure your child wears a life jacket when swimming in open water, boating, or participating in water sports.

Heat Safety

  • Stay Hydrated: Make sure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
  • Avoid Overheating: Dress your child in loose, light-colored clothing and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.
  • Cool Down: Take frequent breaks in cool or air-conditioned areas to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Insect Safety

  • Use Repellent: Apply insect repellent with DEET to protect your child from mosquito and tick bites.
  • Wear Appropriate Clothing: Dress your child in long sleeves and pants when in wooded or grassy areas to prevent bites.
  • Check for Ticks: After outdoor activities, check your child for ticks and remove them promptly.

Home Care Tips

  • Keep a first aid kit handy for minor injuries and know how to use it.
  • Teach your child about the importance of staying safe and being aware of their surroundings.
  • Ensure your child wears appropriate protective gear for activities like biking, skateboarding, and rollerblading.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If your child shows signs of heat exhaustion, severe sunburn, or an allergic reaction to insect bites, seek medical attention immediately. Our pediatric team at Monadnock Community Hospital is here to provide the care and support your child needs.

Why Choose Monadnock Community Hospital’s Pediatrics Department?

Your child’s health is our top priority. At Monadnock Community Hospital, we offer expert, compassionate pediatric care from birth to adolescence. Our dedicated team of board-certified pediatricians and nurses provides comprehensive services. We believe in partnering with families to create personalized care plans and foster a healthy start in life. With a rich history of serving our community, we’re committed to providing accessible, high-quality care in a warm and welcoming environment. As a not-for-profit hospital serving families since 1919, you can trust us to deliver the highest standard of care in a safe, nurturing environment. Join us in supporting your child’s health and happiness.

Monadnock Regional Pediatrics