Summer can be the best time of year for children, but it also can bring safety risks.
That’s the message of officials who staged the Kid Safe Summer event Wednesday morning, July 2, in Loma Linda.
First 5 San Bernardino and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital hosted the session to offer tips on protecting children, especially those 5 and younger.
Gathering at the Drayson Center at Loma Linda University, officials demonstrated how kids can be safe in the water, in vehicles that can heat up along with the temperatures and how to correctly install a car seat.
Their suggestions included:
- Take swimming lessons: These sessions get kids familiar with the water and teach them to get out of a pool should they fall in.
- Consider life jackets: U.S. Coast Guard-approved jackets can improve water safety, but are no substitute for supervision.
- Use barriers around pools: Proper fencing or netting can help avoid accidents.
- Beware of hot cars: Don’t leave children in a parked car as temperatures inside can quickly climb to more than 120° on a hot day — even with the windows slightly open.
- Check the back seat: Before leaving a vehicle, always check to make sure you’re not forgetting a child.
- Seek shade, use sunscreen: Babies and toddlers have thinner, more sensitive skin. Kids should take breaks in the shade, wear wide-brimmed hats and sun shirts and use sunscreen. It’s best for those under 6 months old to be kept entirely out of the sun, The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests.
- Stay hydrated: Kids can dehydrate faster than adults. Keep them drinking water.
- Car seat basics: Be sure car seats are installed properly. Remember that those under 2 years old must be facing the rear.
For more safety information from First 5 San Bernardino, click here.
