Summer is approaching, what are your plans?
The school year is wrapping up and we are all busy making summer plans. Whether your kids are off to camp or you are off on a family vacation, I want to bring up a few quick safety tips to keep in mind. Happy summer, Dr Y.
Summer camps
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- Get any health forms to our office with plenty of time.
- Have medications refilled and ready to go.
- Make sure immunizations are up to date.
- Recommend COVID vaccines and boosters to help keep your child(ren) safe.
- Proper hand washing, covering coughs, consider masks, etc.
- Camp requirements will vary for COVID vaccines and masks, check the camp’s policies and protocols.
Air travel
- Make sure immunizations are up to date.
- Recommend COVID vaccines and boosters.
- Consider wearing masks in airports and on flights.
- For international travel: check with our office at least 4 weeks in advance to determine if specific vaccinations and/or medications are needed for the trip.
Sun
- Be sure to stay hydrated.
- Take breaks from prolonged sun exposure. Children under 12 months old should try to stay out of the sun as much as possible.
- Remember, peak sun hours are from 10am to 4pm.
- Don’t forget sunscreen! Apply 30 minutes before going outdoors and remember to reapply as indicated.
Water
- NEVER leave children unsupervised in or near water such as the kiddie pool, pool, hot tub, beach or lake.
- Life vests are recommended for young children when on a lake or open water. If going out on a boat, make sure to have vests for all passengers including teens and adults.
- Summer is a perfect time to sign kids up for swim lessons. Everyone needs to know how to swim!
- Again, don’t forget your sunscreen. With water and sweating, you will need to remember to reapply it.
- Clothing and swimwear with UV protection is highly recommended, especially for children under 12 months.
Outdoors
- Remember to always wear a helmet when riding bikes, scooters, skateboards or skating.
- When outdoors, be mindful of and respect the wildlife.
- Insect repellent when appropriate. Best to apply it to clothing and avoid application to face directly. Apply a small amount to your hand and then rub on a child’s face, avoiding eyes and mouth.
- When hiking in the woods or areas known to have ticks, be sure to wear proper clothing (pants and long sleeves). You also want to do a tick check once done with your day’s adventure.
