From sunshine to swimming pools, there is plenty to enjoy about summer for all ages. It’s a time where the weather permits spending time in the great outdoors for plenty of activities that can involve the whole family. As most people begin to plan seasonal vacations and beach trips, it’s equally important to promote safety for the health and well-being of each child.

Install a Pool Fence

With thousands of drowning incidents reported each year, it’s crucial to install a fence that wraps around the entire perimeter of a pool to ensure pets and children are not able to access the water without supervision. A lock should also be installed for adult-only access. While swimming, make certain rules that prohibit running or horseplay.

Stay Hydrated

When spending hours outdoors playing during summer break, kids can quickly become dehydrated or suffer from heatstroke when forgetting to drink water throughout the day. Kids should drink water every 20 minutes while outdoors or when involved in a sport while drinking at least eight cups of water of day.

Use Sunscreen

With record-breaking temperatures experienced across the U.S., the summer heat is becoming more of a threat as the mercury rises. The best natural sunscreen for children are products that do not contain toxic ingredients, which often end up in the blood stream. Avoid sunscreen that contains parabens or high SPF levels, but still offer UVA protection. It’s also important to stay out of the sun from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. when the rays are most harmful.

Keep Pools Clean

Water-related illnesses from germs found in pools and in natural bodies of water can lead to infections and diarrhea. Keep chlorine levels at the recommended levels and instruct children to avoid swallowing water while swimming.

Ward off Bugs

Bugs instantly appear during the summer months for pesky critters that are not only an annoyance, but are also a threat to children’s health. Both mosquitos and ticks can carry the West Nile virus, which can lead to muscle weakness, brain damage, and even death. Prevent bug bites by avoiding areas of thick brush, checking children for ticks each day, and draining pools of standing water.

By taking the necessary safety precautions each summer, it can work to keep children healthy and safe while still maintaining a busy schedule. Kids can continue to enjoy the outdoors with their friends without increasing their chances of becoming ill or injured.