Sun Safety for Kids, Summer Food Safety, Pool and Playground Safety

by: Lindsay Hutton

Warm weather and schedule-free days make summer the most relaxing time of year, but it can also pose some hazards if you aren't careful. Keep your kids and family safe during these carefree days with this simple summer safety guide. And don't forget the number one rule of summer: Have fun!

Toddler playing with garden hose outside

Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses

Hot weather can put your child at risk for dehydration and sun-related illnesses like heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Read up on the signs and symptoms of each and find out what to do if your child is suffering from one. Also, learn about preventing hot car deaths.

Close up of child holding sparkler in hand

Beware of Fireworks

Whether it's the Fourth of July or any other outdoor celebration, nothing beats a great firework display. Although it might seem like a fun idea to set some off yourself, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission strongly recommends that you leave any and all fireworks to the professionals.

However, if fireworks are legal where you live and you decide to set some off on your own, make sure to follow these 6 fireworks safety tips before you do.

Young boy putting on sunscreen at the beach

Choose Safe Sunscreens

Sun protection in the summertime is a given, but do you know what to look for in a sunscreen? Follow these sunscreen guidelines for all ages, and use this list of safest sunscreens for kids to find one that works best for your family.

Identify and Avoid Poisonous Plants

Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac all thrive in warmer months, especially in wooded areas, and contact with these plants can cause a blistering red rash, headache, and fever.

Find out how to avoid contamination, and learn how to treat poison ivy if your child comes into contact with it.

Back shot of family taking a summer hike

Avoid Ticks

Typical summertime activities like hiking and picnics can expose your family (and pets) to these nasty little bugs. Practice these 6 tips to avoid ticks to help prevent any unwanted bites.

If you do find one on your child, you'll need to remove it as soon as possible, and watch for these signs and symptoms, as they might indicate Lyme disease and will require medical attention.

Follow Pool Safety Rules

Nothing cools you off quite like a dip in the pool on a hot summer day, but this summer pastime can also present some obvious (and not-so-obvious) dangers.

Use this list of pool safety guidelines to make sure your whole family stays safe. Many of the same rules apply for swimming safety as well, so educate your child before he enjoys splashing around.

Handle Food Safely

Barbecues and picnics are a summertime staple, but be careful — between undercooking meat on the grill, letting food sit in the heat too long, and lack of outdoor facilities to wash hands and food, it's not surprising that rates of food-borne illnesses rise in the summer months.

Refer to these easy-to-follow summer food safety tips to keep your food safe for consumption.

Close up of smiling girl on roller coaster

Have a Plan in Crowded Places

Amusement parks, outdoor festivals, concerts, and other events can be a special treat for summer days, but it's important to cover some basic safety rules with your child before you head out.

Make sure to talk to your kids about stranger danger, and what to do if they get lost. Many facilities will have staff who are well-trained in helping lost children, so educate your child on who to look for in case he gets separated from you.

Little boy looking through tunnel at playground

Practice Playground Safety

You'll likely be taking more trips to the playground now that the kids are out of school. Use this simple checklist to make sure your playground meets the safety standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Practice Bicycle Safety

A leisurely bike ride is the quintessential summertime activity. We all know the importance of bike helmets, but is your child wearing the right size? Use these easy tips to ensure his helmet fits correctly.

Also, this bike safety article is a fun and easy way to educate your child on how to stay safe on two wheels.

10 Simple Steps to Avoid Summer Hazards

by: Lindsay Hutton

Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses

Beware of Fireworks

Choose Safe Sunscreens

Identify and Avoid Poisonous Plants

Avoid Ticks

Follow Pool Safety Rules

Handle Food Safely

Have a Plan in Crowded Places

Practice Playground Safety

Practice Bicycle Safety

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by: Lindsay Hutton

Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses

Beware of Fireworks

Choose Safe Sunscreens

Identify and Avoid Poisonous Plants

Avoid Ticks

Follow Pool Safety Rules

Handle Food Safely

Have a Plan in Crowded Places

Practice Playground Safety

Practice Bicycle Safety

FE Most Popular Slideshow

An Age-by-Age Guide to Teaching Kids About "The Birds & The Bees"

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8 Printable Thank-You Cards for Teacher Appreciation Week

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