by BreeAnn Silcox, coalition coordinator, Safe Kids Bear River
Summer is one of the most exciting times of the year for kids, but it’s also when they can be at risk for severe injuries.
Safe Kids Bear River recommends the following five tips to stay safe this summer season:
- Give kids your undivided attention. Actively supervise children throughout the summer, whether it’s at the playground or in and around water. Small children can drown in as little as one inch of water.
- Educate your children about swimming safety. Every child is different, so enroll children in swimming lessons when you feel they are ready. Whether swimming in a backyard pool or in a lake, teach children to swim with an adult. Older, more experienced swimmers should still swim with a partner every time.
- Set up your grill with safety in mind. Use long-handled grilling tools and position your grill well away from siding, deck railings and overhanging branches, while keeping a safe distance from play areas and foot traffic. Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill so it can’t be ignited by heat.
- Never leave your child alone in a car, not even for a minute. It can be tempting to leave a child alone in a car while you quickly run into a store, but it can cause serious injury or even death in a matter of minutes. Reduce the number of deaths from heatstroke by remembering to ACT: Avoid heatstroke, create reminders and take action if you see a child left alone.
- Wear a helmet for biking and other wheeled sports. We have a simple saying, “Use your head, wear a helmet.” It is the single most effective safety device available to reduce head injury and death from bike crashes. Kids should wear a helmet when riding a scooter, skating, skateboarding or biking.
For more information about summer safety, contact (435) 792-6510 or visit safekids.org.
